The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has unequivocally rejected any association of the Niger Delta and South-South geopolitical zones with the ongoing agitations for an independent Biafra nation.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Youth Leader, Donben Donyegha, PANDEF made it clear that the Niger Delta region is committed to Nigeria’s unity and will not tolerate any attempts to include it in plans for secession. The group described such actions as disrespectful and provocative toward the people and leaders of the region.
Strong Resistance to Biafra Inclusion
Donyegha emphasized that the Niger Delta has no interest in separating from Nigeria, warning those advocating for Biafra to desist from including the region in their plans. He stated:
“The proponents of Biafra Republic have been warned to desist from including communities of the Niger Delta and the South-South geopolitical zone in their secessionist agenda. The Niger Delta is not part of Biafra, and any attempt to suggest otherwise is an insult to the leaders and people of the region.”
He added that the youth of the Niger Delta would strongly resist any further attempts to associate the region with Biafra, urging the agitators to cease their provocative behavior.
Commitment to a United Nigeria
PANDEF reaffirmed its belief in a united Nigeria where all citizens are treated equally, emphasizing the need for states to have greater control over their natural resources while contributing to the federal government for national security, foreign policy, and other centralized functions.
The statement further elaborated:
“PANDEF believes in a true Nigeria, where no one is treated as a second-class citizen, and where equal opportunities exist for all. Our vision aligns with the ideals enshrined in the 1964 Constitution, which supported resource control and self-determination within the framework of a united Nigeria.”
Engagement with Government for Reforms
Acknowledging the flaws in the current 1999 Constitution, PANDEF pledged to continue engaging both federal and state governments to address the grievances of the Niger Delta people. The group highlighted the leadership of its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, as instrumental in pushing for intellectual and diplomatic solutions to the region’s challenges.
Caution to Biafra Agitators
The statement also called on Nigerians and the international community to recognize that the Niger Delta is not part of the Biafra agitation. It warned those promoting such ideas, whether within Nigeria or abroad, to refrain from any actions that could provoke a strong response from the region.
“The Niger Delta is not and will never be part of the plan to break away from Nigeria under the aegis of Biafra Republic. We caution these agitators to demonstrate maturity and respect by refraining from including the Niger Delta in their agenda,” the statement concluded.
PANDEF’s position underscores the region’s commitment to a united and equitable Nigeria, while firmly opposing any attempts to exploit its identity for secessionist purposes. The group vowed to remain proactive in advocating for the region’s development through peaceful and constructive means.
