From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The National leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has called on all governorship candidates in the November 11 election, especially former Governor Chief Timipre Sylva of the All Progressives Congress (APC), to follow the example set by a noble son of Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta, former President Goodluck Jonathan, in reaching out to Governor Douye Diri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who has been declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement issued by National Chairman of PANDEF,
Emmanuel Essien, congratulating Diri on what it terms a well-deserved re-election for a 2nd Term, the Forum said doing so will be in the overall interest of Bayelsa State.
PANDEF urged Diri to be magnanimous in victory while calling on all political leaders in Bayelsa State to work together by placing the peace and stability of the state above all other considerations.
PANDEF further commended the people of Bayelsa State for the relatively peaceful governorship election, which was devoid of violence in most places.
“We are using this opportunity to also commend the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the security agencies for the orderly manner in which they conducted the off-season election in Bayelsa State.
“It should be noted that Bayelsa State is critical to the stability of the Niger Delta region, and the national economy in general. Hence, the peaceful electoral outcome is quite pleasing to all.
“We must also commend the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his stately stance of non-interference in the electoral process.
“PANDEF calls on the security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported unfortunate incident of death in Brass local government area of the state as well as other infractions committed during the election.”