NDC DENOUNCES THE VIOLENCE IN AKWA IBOM STATE 

The Niger Delta Congress strongly denounces the ongoing politically instigated violence in Akwa Ibom State.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of innocent lives and the destruction of properties in Obolo and other communities within Akwa Ibom which has brought about a climate of fear and immense suffering to the people of Akwa Ibom.

There is enough empirical evidence to show that this recent surge in violent acts in Akwa Ibom against selected communities has its roots in the influencing the application of the Host Community Fund sections of the recently passed Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which prior to now the NDC has outrightly condemned being aware of its propensity to catalyze inter-ethnic and intra-ethnic conflict in the region.

We must likewise point out that intra-regional violence has never served the interests of Niger Deltans.

The Niger Delta Congress firmly believes in the principles of peace, unity, and mutual respect and as such we call on all stakeholders, political representatives and community leaders to make all honest efforts to end all forms of politically instigated violence in Akwa Ibom. We urge all parties involved to embrace dialogue and peaceful means to address their grievances.

We stand in solidarity with Akwa Ibom, and we commiserate with the families of those who have lost loved ones in Obolo and and other affected communities and call upon the government, security agencies, and community leaders to take swift and decisive action to restore peace and security in the state.

We emphasize the importance of community engagement, strengthening security measures, and promoting education and empowerment as vital steps towards building a peaceful and prosperous future for all.

We appeal particularly to the Akwa Ibom state government to not allow itself or its institutions to be used by individuals or communities with selfish interests to plunge the region and state into unnecessary violence. We implore Governor Umo Eno to use this opportunity to freely deploy the principles of fairness and justice, promote inclusivity and pursue inter-group cohesion in Akwa Ibom and the entire Niger Delta.

As the free indigenous people of Niger Delta, together, let us reject violence and work tirelessly towards a harmonious and conflict free Akwa Ibom and Niger Delta.

God Bless Akwa Ibom.

Mudiaga Ogboru

National Spokesperson, NDC