A coalition of militant groups from the nine states of the Niger Delta have claimed that the leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) is acting the script of some members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The group, therefore, warned that they would be forced to resume hostilities against oil installations if the Federal Government enters into any discussion or agreement with PANDEF.
PANDEF, led by Chief Edwin Clark, has been leading the process of dialogue with the federal government, over crisis in the Niger Delta.
The coalition of militants, led by the Reformed Niger Delta Agenda (RNDA), after a crucial meeting held along the Benin River, in Delta State, presided over by its leader, Major Johnmark Ezonbi, declared that the PANDEF was structured as an opposition tool of the PDP.
In a communiqué issued at the end of their meeting, they lamented the lack of development in the Niger Delta region, in spite of the huge funds that had accrued to the zone.
They advised the federal government to enter into fresh talks with the Pan Niger Delta People’s Congress, headed by Pere Charles, Dr. Ayemi Botu and other respected traditional rulers and stake holders in the region, including Dr. Mike Emuh, who is the national chairman of HOSTCOM and High Chief Francis Innegbeniki, representing Edo State.
According to them, “They have our mandate from the creeks, to discuss and negotiate with the federal government, on behalf of the region.
“RNDA, with the coalition of other militant groups in the region wish to call on President Muhammadu Buhari not to have anything to do with the disbanded PANDEF group as they cannot speak or negotiate with the Federal Government on behalf of the Niger Delta region.
“The coalition will be forced to resume hostilities in the creek in a well coordinated approach, if the Federal Government enters into any discussion with PANDEF, as the group no longer enjoys the blessings and support of militants stake holders in the region.”
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