The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has maintained that it has not endorsed any presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying the interests of the Niger Delta will guide its eventual political position.
The regional organisation said it remained neutral despite receiving visits from some political aspirants and holding discussions with individuals interested in securing its support.
PANDEF’s National Chairman of the National Executive Council, Godknows Igali, disclosed this during an appearance on Political Platform, a programme aired on AIT and RayPower on Friday.
Igali explained that although some candidates had approached the organisation, its leadership had yet to approve any endorsement.
He said PANDEF’s governing organs would determine whether the group should support a candidate. He added that the decision would depend on prevailing political circumstances and the long-term interests of the Niger Delta.
PANDEF Lists Key Issues for 2027 Presidential Candidates
Igali advised people across the Niger Delta to examine the manifestos and policy commitments of political parties before deciding who to support in the 2027 elections.
He warned against making political choices based only on party loyalty, urging voters to consider how candidates intend to address the region’s longstanding challenges.
He identified environmental degradation, ecological vulnerability, resource allocation and the development of oil-producing communities as major issues that should shape political discussions.
According to him, presidential hopefuls seeking the region’s support must demonstrate a clear understanding of these concerns and present practical plans to address them.
PANDEF Calls for Environmental Restoration in Niger Delta
Igali also called for a comprehensive environmental cleanup and restoration programme across the Niger Delta.
He said years of oil exploration and related activities had damaged the region’s environment, making urgent rehabilitation necessary.
The PANDEF chairman further questioned the existing offshore/onshore dichotomy in Nigeria’s revenue allocation system.
He argued that the arrangement should reflect the economic realities of fishing communities whose livelihoods depend on offshore waters.
According to him, the interests of these communities must receive proper consideration when authorities make decisions about resource distribution.
PANDEF Defends Cooperation Among South-South Governors
Igali also defended cooperation among governors in the South-South, saying regional collaboration remained important for advancing common interests.
He maintained that state leaders needed to work together despite their political differences to address challenges affecting the region.
He stressed that collective action would help strengthen the Niger Delta’s voice in national discussions and improve efforts to secure development for its communities.
The organisation maintained that its eventual position on the 2027 elections would reflect the region’s long-term interests rather than partisan considerations.