(DDM) – The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has urged people of the oil-rich region to unite and confront decades of neglect and underdevelopment.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the call came during the inauguration of PANDEF’s Lagos chapter, which was presided over by its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali.
Igali declared that Niger Delta oil wealth sustained Nigeria’s economic growth for decades, yet the region that produced the resources remains underdeveloped.
He noted that the wealth of the Niger Delta built cities, funded industries, and strengthened infrastructure in other parts of Nigeria, while the host communities wallowed in poverty.
The elder statesman reminded attendees of historic struggles against exploitation, stressing that past military regimes used suppression to silence Niger Delta voices.
PANDEF announced plans to host a cultural festival to showcase regional identity, alongside the creation of a South-South investment fund to diversify opportunities beyond crude oil.
Speakers at the event urged Niger Deltans to speak with one voice, arguing that disunity had allowed the federal government to ignore critical development projects.
They pointed to the long-abandoned East-West Road, the non-functional seaports across the region, and the stalled Ogidigben gas project as clear evidence of federal neglect.
Igali emphasized that unless the Niger Delta unites, the cycle of underdevelopment would continue despite the region’s enormous contributions to national revenue.
He condemned what he described as deliberate attempts to marginalize the region, calling for fair treatment and equal opportunity for its people.
PANDEF also raised alarm over the destruction of Opuoma community in Imo State, warning that unchecked violence threatens peace and stability in the region.
The Forum appealed directly to President Bola Tinubu to intervene urgently in the crisis rocking Rivers State and restore Governor Siminalayi Fubara to his full constitutional authority.
Analysts say the move reflects growing frustration in the South-South, where political instability and economic stagnation are undermining development efforts.
Observers believe PANDEF’s demands could set the tone for renewed agitation if the federal government fails to respond with concrete action.
They also note that PANDEF’s message of unity comes at a time when discontent is rising over environmental degradation, unemployment, and security challenges linked to oil exploration.
PANDEF leaders insisted that Niger Delta people must put aside political differences and focus on a shared agenda for survival and prosperity.
They argued that only unity can force the federal government to deliver long-delayed infrastructure and respect the rights of oil-producing communities.
The group’s intervention echoes decades of activism by groups such as MOSOP and Ijaw Youth Council, which fought against environmental damage and exploitation.
Supporters of PANDEF say the forum’s call carries weight because it unites traditional leaders, technocrats, and politicians across the six Niger Delta states.
Critics, however, argue that without a strong enforcement mechanism, the group risks being ignored like other regional platforms that issued similar communiqués in the past.
For many in the audience, the message was clear, the Niger Delta must speak with one voice, or risk remaining a cash cow for the rest of Nigeria without enjoying its fair share of development.
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