Niger Delta Women Rights Group Cautions Against “Pull Him Down Syndrome”, Urges Support For Tompolo, Dr Otuaro, Mathew, Kestin Pondi

By Joseph Bienbo, Warri

Prominent Niger Delta group under the auspices of Ijaw Women Rights Protection Forum, IWRPF, have called on the people of the region to end what they described as unnecessary blackmail, accusations, and character assassination against leaders working for the development of the area.

The group in a statement by its national president Comrade Hilda Amogha condemned sustained attack on High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, Dr Dennis Burutu Otuaro, High Chief Kestin Pondi, Engr Matthew Tonlagha and other leaders who are making efforts to attract recognition, opportunities and development to the region. According to them, such leaders deserved appreciation and constructive support rather than attacks. The stakeholders noted that the Niger Delta has suffered for decades from neglect, underdevelopment, unemployment, environmental degradation and lack of opportunities, and that it is wrong for the region to fight those making efforts to change the narrative.

The group also appealed to youths and individuals seeking appointments, empowerment or recognition to be patient, stressing that destroying others will not guarantee relevance. “You do not need to destroy another person simply because you have not yet received what you are looking for. There is enough room for everyone to contribute to the development of the Niger Delta,” they stated. While noting that leaders can be held accountable, they drew a line between constructive criticism and destructive blackmail, saying criticism should aim to correct wrongs and not to create division among brothers and sisters.

The women warned that continued internal fighting will only keep the region divided while others move forward. They urged the people to embrace unity, celebrate one another’s successes, and engage leaders maturely. “If we unite, support good initiatives and hold our leaders accountable with maturity, we can build a stronger and more respected Niger Delta. Our people are watching us. The younger generation is watching us. The world is watching us,” they said. The statement concluded with a call for “One Niger Delta. One people. One voice. One common future.”