TheCable

The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) says the Niger Delta region is “largely under-represented in the appointments made so far” by President Bola Tinubu.

At a meeting of stakeholders chaired by Edwin Clark, Ijaw national leader, on Wednesday, the group acknowledged the positive steps that have been taken by the president and said “a lot more needs to be done urgently to ease the harsh economic burdens on ordinary citizens of the country”.

In a communique issued at the end of the meeting, PANDEF said it believes in a united and peaceful Nigeria, adding that this can be obtainable through a holistic restructuring of the country.

“The meeting notes the appointment of some sons and daughters of the Niger Delta to statutory positions by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, decries the fact that the Niger Delta region remains largely under-represented in the appointments made so far, and calls on Mr. President to reverse the trend,” the minute of the meeting reads.

“Implores the political class of the south-south geopolitical zone, including the governors, members of the national assembly, ministers, and heads of MDAs, to work together, irrespective of their political disparities, in the overall interest of the region.

“Reminds the governors of the Niger Delta of the need to resuscitate the activities of BRACED commission, which has become inactive in the last few years.

“Expresses satisfaction with the recent appointment of a new board and management of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) by President Tinubu administration.”