Dialogue with Avengers, not MEND - N-Delta elders tell FG
(Nigeria) In its efforts to ensure that peace returns in the Niger Delta region, a group, Concerned Niger Delta Elders, CNDE, has warned the Federal Government not to enter into any kind of dialogue with the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta, MEND, but rather, dialogue directly with the Niger Delta Avengers or their appointees.
In a statement by Seigha Manijar and Aureol Viviana, the
group said that whatever resolution reached between the Federal Government and
the Avengers, would be a long lasting one rather than going through MEND, even
as it appealed to the militants group to sheathe their swords and dialogue with
the government.
“MEND should speak for itself and not for others. It can
speak on behalf of the Avengers if invited to do so. MEND should not arrogate
to itself the authority to speak for others outside its ranks," the
statement said, warning that negotiating with MEND instead of Avengers would
have grave implications, such as conflict of interest, mistrust, non
implementation of resolutions among others.
"We understand the Avengers’ demand for foreign
observers in the dialogue but we appeal to them to pick their representatives
from among the numerous trusted individuals from the Niger Delta such as Dr
Timiebi Agary, Brig-Gen. Paul Boroh, Timi Alaibe, Prof G.G Darah, Dr Otive
Igbuzor, Enemo Samiama, Roland Ekperi, Wilson Ajuwa and Joel Bisina among
others.
“However, if they are not comfortable with the suggested
names, they should feel free to pick their representatives. That will show the
world that they are ready for dialogue. The government should also consider the
Avengers’ demand of inviting foreign observers as a show of sincerity."
On how to stem the tide of proliferation of splinter groups
in the region, the statement said: “Once the Federal Government starts a
genuine dialogue with the Avengers, who seem to have shown enough capacity and
consistency in their acts, we believe that other groups will fall in line by
absorption or coercion."
The group also frowned at Tompolo’s willingness to be part
of the negotiation saying, “Tompolo does not necessarily have to be in any
negotiation team, whether it is driven by MEND or any other group. What is
important is that given the right atmosphere, any group or representatives
could discuss Tompolo’s plight, including Henry Okah and others. There is no
doubt that Tompolo can be an asset to this government on Niger Delta crisis if
well managed."
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