Planned ‘Mother of All Mass Peaceful Protest’ in Niger Delta Cancelled
By Wilson Macaulay
Following a stakeholders meeting held in Warri, Delta State, on February 25, 2025, the coalition of Niger Delta civil society organizations and ex-agitators, in a commendable display of leadership and responsiveness, officially cancelled the highly anticipated mass peaceful protest, originally scheduled for February 26, 2025.
A Press release signed by Barr. Prince Nelson Gomeromo, National Coordinator, Progressive Alliance for Niger (PAN), Comrade Jesse Birinumughan, National Coordinator, Niger Delta Defence Force (NDDF), Comrade Jackson Agbor, Chairman, Ijaw Youth Leaders of Thought made available to vanguard Newspaper revealed that the decision followed the commendable intervention of revered leaders, elders, and well-meaning stakeholders across the Niger Delta region, alongside the strategic engagement of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).
According to the Press statement,
the cancellation underscores the coalition’s commitment to meaningful dialogue, constructive engagement, and collective progress.
The group, in a public notice issued on February 25, 2025, expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering solidarity demonstrated by its members and various support groups in championing the interests of the region.
Recognition of Dr. Samuel Ogbuku’s Leadership and Achievements A key highlight of the statement was the coalition’s recognition of the significant strides made by Dr. Samuel Ogbuku during his tenure as the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). His dedication to the welfare and progress of the region has earned widespread admiration, with the coalition hailing his leadership as purposeful and visionary.
“His visible commitment to the progress and welfare of the region has set a clear path for positive change,” the coalition stated, adding that Dr. Ogbuku’s stewardship has lifted the Niger Delta to new heights of development and inclusivity.
Furthermore, the coalition applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for reappointing Dr. Ogbuku as the MD/CEO of the NDDC. They described him as an “enterprising, progressive, and worthy ambassador of the Niger Delta” whose administration has demonstrated probity, competence, and strategic leadership in managing the affairs of the Commission.
A Call for Unity and Continued Support
In light of these developments, the coalition emphasized the need for all stakeholders, including youths and ex-agitators, to unite behind Dr. Ogbuku’s leadership and vision for sustainable development across the Niger Delta. They stressed that supporting his administration would ultimately serve the best interests of the region by fostering peace, economic growth, and infrastructural transformation.
“As we move forward, we urge all members of the Niger Delta region to rally behind him and his mission to drive sustainable development and unity across the region,” the coalition declared, reinforcing their dedication to collaboration, dialogue, and advocacy for the betterment of the Niger Delta.
The decision to call off the protest marks a turning point in the Niger Delta’s pursuit of justice, equity, and development through dialogue rather than confrontation. The coalition expressed profound appreciation to all community members and stakeholders for their patience, understanding, and unwavering support.
With a renewed sense of purpose and a collective commitment to progress, the Niger Delta continues to chart a path towards sustainable peace, prosperity, and inclusive development.
