A group, Concerned Niger Delta Elders (CNDE), has called on President Muhammadu Buhari not to negotiate with the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) but should dialogue directly with the Niger Delta Avengers or their representatives.

This was contained in a statement signed by Seigha Manijar and Aureol Viviana. The statement noted that whatever agreement reached between government and MEND will not be lasting but should dialogue with Avengers for lasting peace.

The group pointed conflict of interest as well as mistrust as reasons why government should not negotiate with the Avengers through MEND

The statement reads, “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.”

“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 (retd), 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.”

“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.”

Speaking on Tompolo’s role in the negotiation, the group said, “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.”

Mazi Emeka