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The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has condemned the spate of political violence in parts of the South-South, particularly Warri, Calabar and Asaba, calling on security agencies to investigate the incidents and bring those responsible to justice.
It expressed concern over the incidents, particularly the November 7 violence in Asaba, Delta State, which claimed a life.
In a statement signed by its national chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, PANDEF described the incidents as a threat to peaceful coexistence in the Niger Delta and urged political leaders to discourage actions capable of triggering violence among their supporters.
The forum recalled that the incidents occurred in the Warri/Effurun axis on September 18, Calabar on November 4 and Asaba on November 7, 2026.
It said violence, intimidation and political thuggery were alien to the values and traditions of peaceful coexistence, tolerance and political forbearance for which the South-South was known.
“This is what we inherited from our founding fathers and MUST be sustained,” the statement said.
PANDEF urged political leaders, party supporters and other stakeholders to demonstrate maturity and sportsmanship in managing political differences, warning that inflammatory rhetoric, provocation and irresponsible conduct could trigger violence.
It also appealed to youths in the region not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political violence, thuggery or intimidation by politicians.
“Our young people as primary focus of our democratic governance are the future of our region and should channel their energy and zeal towards peaceful and constructive political activism.
“This must not be sacrificed on the altar of depraved interests of few selfish political actors,” it said.
The forum called on the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies to urgently investigate the incidents, identify those behind them and ensure their prosecution.
It also advised political parties to organise rallies and large gatherings in properly secured venues, with adequate security arrangements, particularly when movements between locations become necessary.
According to PANDEF, such measures would improve crowd control, minimise the risk of clashes and protect the lives of participants.
The forum called on political stakeholders to place the collective interest of the Niger Delta above partisan considerations and work together to protect lives and property.
It said the South-South must remain a region of peace, tolerance, mutual respect and responsible democratic engagement throughout the election season and beyond.
