PANDEF Warns On Migration Of Almajiri To N/Delta

By GWG Staff

The Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF, has strongly condemned what it described as the unrestricted movement of persons from the Northern parts of the country into States in the Niger Delta region, in view of the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.   

“It is worrisome that every day we get reports of the interception of vehicles laden with tens and hundreds of persons, mostly young men, concealed amongst livestock or foodstuff being transported to the region from the North,” PANDEF national chairman, Air Commodore Idongesit Nkanga (rtd.) said in a statement made available to GreenWhiteGreen.

While observing the ban on interstate travels, the PANDEF, “therefore, wonders how these persons are able to transit across the country from the northern states in vehicles to the Niger Delta states, without being detected and stopped by security agents. This definitely raises doubts on the detachment of security personnel in this disturbing situation. “

Questioning the motif for the mass exodus, the group said it was “further disturbed because these persons are assumed to be Almajiris from the Northern states; and with some states in that part fast becoming epicentres of the pandemic in the country. Even more worrying is the fact that many of the Almajiris relocated to their states of origin in the North reportedly tested positive to COVID-19.

“Besides, these persons could pose serious security and socioeconomic challenges in the Niger Delta region. Therefore, this mass exodus to the Niger Delta should stop; these persons should remain in their States. PANDEF hopes there are no sinister intents to undermine the health security and safety of the people of the Niger Delta region.”

“We are grateful to God that the pandemic has largely been contained in States across the region. This is obviously due to the proactive measures put in place by the Governors, and the cooperation of the people.”

The group, therefore, appealed to governors in the region to quickly implement a regional security network to curtail the threat from such movements.

Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us

 And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG