NO More Biafra ? Tension Hits South- East As State Rejects Biafra, Issues STRONG Warning To Simon Ekpa’s Followers
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has issued a strong caution to supporters of the Biafra Republic, urging them to exclude the Niger Delta and South- South regions from their separatist agenda. In a firm declaration, the forum made it clear that it does not support any attempt to associate these areas with the secessionist movement.
This warning was contained in a statement released in Port Harcourt, signed by Donben Donyegha, the National Youth Leader of PANDEF. In the statement, PANDEF reiterated its unwavering commitment to a unified Nigeria, a nation built on justice, fairness, and equality. The forum rejected any notion of aligning the Niger Delta with the Biafra movement, describing such actions as both provocative and disrespectful to the region’ s leadership.
The statement made it unequivocal that the inclusion of Niger Delta communities in Biafra’ s plans would not be tolerated. It read: ” We, the youths of this region, will resist such moves in every possible way. Any further attempt to undermine or insult our leaders through provocative statements or publications about the inclusion of Niger Delta towns or territories in the so- called Biafra Republic will be met with strong opposition. We will not stand idly by while our region is dragged into an agenda that does not represent our values or aspirations. ”
PANDEF reaffirmed its belief in a united Nigeria, one where no individual or group is treated as second- class citizens. According to the group, unity must be founded on principles of equal opportunity, resource control by sub- national entities, and a fair distribution of power. The forum emphasized that states should have control over their God- given resources while contributing taxes to the federal government to support national security, territorial integrity, foreign policy, and international diplomacy. PANDEF argued that this approach would enable Nigeria to achieve sustainable peace and development, allowing every region to progress at its own pace.
The group also reflected on the vision of Nigeria’ s founding fathers, pointing out that the ideals enshrined in the 1964 Constitution promoted a decentralized system of governance. They lamented the deviations introduced by the 1999 Constitution but maintained their commitment to engaging with the federal and state governments to ensure that the original vision of a just and equitable Nigeria is realized. PANDEF highlighted the leadership of Ambassador Godknows Igali, a respected intellectual of international acclaim, as its National Chairman, emphasizing the forum’ s readiness to champion these ideals.
Addressing the international community and Nigerians alike, PANDEF stated firmly 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. The forum called on individuals and groups advocating for secession, whether within Nigeria or abroad, to act with maturity and refrain from including the Niger Delta in their agenda.
The statement concluded with a strong admonition: ” We believe this warning should serve as a wake- up call to agitators to desist from provocative actions and behaviors. The Niger Delta has its own distinct identity, aspirations, and priorities, which are deeply rooted in the pursuit of justice, equality, and sustainable development within a united Nigeria. Any attempt to disregard these realities will face unwavering resistance. ”
In summary, PANDEF’ s position underscores its dedication to preserving the unity of Nigeria while advocating for equitable treatment and resource control for all regions. It firmly distances the Niger Delta from any secessionist movements, emphasizing the region’ s commitment to a peaceful and united nation.
