The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has formally requested the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to investigate recent outbreaks of political violence in the South-South region and prosecute those responsible. The apex socio-political organization for the region issued a statement on Monday, signed by National Chairman Ambassador Godknows Igali, condemning the disturbances that have affected Delta and Cross River States.
The statement specifically cited three incidents that have raised serious concerns: clashes in the Warri/Effurun axis on September 18, 2026, violence in Calabar on November 4, and a deadly incident in Asaba on November 7, 2026. PANDEF expressed particular alarm over the reported loss of life in Asaba, describing the series of events as a direct threat to the peaceful coexistence that characterizes the Niger Delta.
“The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) notes with very serious concern and strongly condemns the disturbing incidents of political violence recorded around our region. Most worrisome are the sad events which occurred in the Warri/Effurun axis on Friday, 18th September 2026; in Calabar on Wednesday, 4th November, 2026 and most recently, the incident in Asaba on Saturday, 7th November 2026 in which a life was lost!”
Ambassador Igali emphasized that peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and political forbearance are values inherited from the region's founding fathers that must be preserved. He urged political leaders, party supporters, and other stakeholders to demonstrate maturity and sportsmanship when resolving disagreements. The forum also warned political figures against using inflammatory rhetoric or engaging in actions that could trigger violence, stressing their responsibility to guide their followers responsibly.
In a direct appeal to the youth of the Niger Delta, PANDEF urged young people not to be used as instruments of political violence, intimidation, or thuggery. The organization advised youths to channel their energy toward peaceful and constructive political participation rather than serving the interests of selfish political actors. The statement explicitly called on the younger generation to avoid becoming "cannon fodder" in political disputes.
Furthermore, PANDEF advised political parties to hold rallies and large gatherings in properly secured venues with adequate security arrangements, particularly during movements to and from event locations. The forum argued that such measures would improve crowd control, minimize the risk of clashes, and protect participants. It concluded by calling on all stakeholders to prioritize the collective interest of the South-South region above partisan considerations, insisting that the area must remain a place of peace and responsible democratic engagement throughout the election season and beyond.
<small>Source: Vanguard News — read the original story there.</small>
