PANDEF condemns South-south political violence ahead of 2027 polls, urges secured rally venues
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) condemned escalating political violence across the South-south region Monday, warning that thuggery and intimidation threaten the zone's democratic values ahead of the 2027 general elections. National Chairman Godknows Igali urged political parties to hold rallies only in secured, walled venues with adequate security to prevent further clashes.
The condemnation follows three violent incidents in recent weeks. In September, suspected thugs disrupted a Nigeria Democratic Congress rally in Warri, Delta State, allegedly opening fire on campaign teams including Peter Obi's entourage. On November 4, Obi's convoy was attacked with sticks and machetes at Calabar's Watt Market Roundabout in Cross River State—police arrested a 27-year-old suspect, Victor Duke. On November 7, an NDC/Obidient Movement procession along Asaba's Nnebisi Road turned deadly, leaving one person dead and five injured. Delta Police had reportedly warned organisers against an open-road rally, recommending a designated venue instead.
PANDEF specifically appealed to Niger Delta youths not to allow themselves to be used as "cannon fodder" for political violence, urging them to channel energy into constructive activism. Igali called on the Nigeria Police Force and DSS to thoroughly investigate all incidents, identify perpetrators and masterminds, and prosecute them to deter future occurrences.
With 2027 campaigns already heating up, the Forum's push for secured venues and accountability tests whether political actors will prioritise regional peace over partisan advantage. Will parties heed the call for controlled environments, or will open-road rallies continue to spark bloodshed?