PANDEF visits Jonathan, harps on regional security for South South

By ANN GODWIN, Port Harcourt

A delegation of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) led by its National Chairman, Emmanuel Ibok Essien, has visited Former President, Goodluck Jonathan where issues of regional security arrangement for the South-South topped the discussions during the meeting in Abuja.

A statement signed by National Publicity Secretary, PANDEF, Ken Robinson noted that the group visited the former President because he is an important voice in the country, and the political leader of the Niger Delta region, particularly, the South-South. It also stated that Jonathan’s vast knowledge and understanding of the complexities and intricacies of the country and region would be of immense benefit in the efforts to resolving the challenges confronting it.

Other issues discussed during the visit include state of the nation; worsening insecurity, restructuring and the various secession agitations. “The PANDEF delegation also discussed the continued neglect of the East-West road and other critical infrastructure by the Federal Government and the 16-Point agenda”.

On restructuring, PANDEF said while it agreed to a united, indivisible Nigeria, it should be based on equity, fairness and justice. PANDEF had earlier briefed the former President on their efforts and solicited Jonathan’s support in rallying the political leadership of the South-South to work together in the interest of the people. (The Guardian)