The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called on security agencies to investigate recent incidents of political violence in Warri, Calabar and Asaba, identify those responsible and ensure they are brought to justice.

The forum condemned the incidents, particularly the November 7 violence in Asaba, Delta State, which reportedly claimed the life of one person.

In a statement on Monday, PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, described the incidents as disturbing and a threat to peaceful coexistence in the region.

The forum cited three incidents, including violence in the Warri/Effurun axis on September 18, Calabar on November 4 and the latest incident in Asaba on November 7.

He described the developments as a threat to the region’s peaceful coexistence and urged political actors to embrace tolerance and responsible conduct ahead of the 2027 general elections.

PANDEF said violence, intimidation and political thuggery were alien to the values and traditions of peaceful coexistence for which the people of the South-South were known.

It urged political party leaders, supporters and other stakeholders to demonstrate maturity and sportsmanship in resolving political differences.

The forum also cautioned political leaders against inflammatory statements, provocation and other actions capable of triggering violence, stressing that they had a responsibility to guide their supporters.

PANDEF particularly appealed to youths in the region not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political violence, thuggery or intimidation.

“We urge the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies to undertake urgently, thorough investigations in the various locations to identify and apprehend the perpetrators and masterminds, and ensure that they are brought to book,” the statement said.

The forum also advised political parties to organise rallies and large gatherings in properly secured venues, with adequate security arrangements, particularly when movements through public places were involved.

According to PANDEF, such measures would improve crowd control, minimise the risk of clashes and protect participants.

He called on all stakeholders to place the collective interest of the Niger Delta above partisan considerations and work together to protect lives and property. (Daily Trust)