Niger Delta Not Part of Biafra, PANDEF Warns Simon Ekpa’s Group

Dec 5, 2024

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By Bayero Ade

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has issued a strong warning to Biafra Republic agitators, advising them to exclude Niger Delta and South-South communities from their secessionist agenda.

In a statement released in Port Harcourt, signed by PANDEF’s National Youth Leader, Donben Donyegha, the group reaffirmed its commitment to a united Nigeria based on justice, equality, and fairness, rejecting any association with the Biafra movement.

PANDEF described the inclusion of Niger Delta communities in the Biafra plan as “insulting” and “provocative,” vowing to resist any further attempts to claim its territories.

“We, the youths, will resist this in all forms. Any attempt to provoke or undermine our leaders by associating Niger Delta territories with the Biafra Republic will face strong resistance,” the statement read.

The group emphasized its belief in a united Nigeria where states manage their resources and contribute to the central government for national security and foreign diplomacy. PANDEF called for a return to the principles of true federalism to ensure every region develops at its own pace.

“PANDEF believes in a Nigeria where no one is treated as a second-class citizen, where equal opportunities exist, and where states control their God-given resources while contributing to the nation’s unity and progress,” the statement continued.

It also highlighted the disruption of Nigeria’s founding ideals by the 1966 military coups, urging a revisit of the federal structure outlined in the 1964 Constitution. PANDEF commended its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, for his leadership and pledged to continue working with governments to achieve the vision of Nigeria’s founding fathers.

The forum issued a clear message to Biafra agitators:

“We want Nigerians and the international community to take note that the Niger Delta is not, and will never be, part of any plan to break away from Nigeria under the guise of the Biafra Republic.

“We urge these agitators, whether within Nigeria or abroad, to act with maturity and cease their provocative actions and statements.”