The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, Monday night, commended the decision of the Niger Delta Avengers, NDA, to cease hostilities and dialogue with the Federal Government, but gave condition for embracing it in peace talks.
It, however, opposed the involvement of former Federal Commissioner for Information and Ijaw national leader, Chief Edwin Clark, in the dialogue, threatening to pull out and disband Aaron Team 2 if government decides to hold a separate dialogue with the NDA team led by him. A source close to Chief Clark, said MEND does not exist and those using do not want peace, asking: “When was it declared by Chief Clark or NDA that Clark is leading an NDA delegation.
He (Clark) convened a meeting of Niger Delta monarchs, leaders and stakeholders, which took a decision to set up a pan Niger Delta to in the mold of Afenifere and Arewa to advocate and speak with one voice on issues about Niger Delta coastal states.” “The NDA and other militant groups accepted the initiative of Niger Delta leaders, saying they believe that Clark would not sell out, what is really the problem of MEND.
Why is it saying that Clark is the leader of NDA delegation when he is not,” the source, who said he did not have the mandate of the elder statesman to speak to Vanguard stated. “I also want to correct the wrong impression that Governor Okowa was not part of the conveners of the meeting.
He was invited to attend the meeting and I am beginning to wonder if MEND actually wants peace, why are they pulling out of the talks if Clark in involved because that is what you is telling me now,” he added.
His words: “Chief Clark have received calls from well-meaning Nigerian leaders and the international community for the meeting that has defused tension in the region, while MEND stirring another tension, why are they still repeating that he is patron or sympathizer of NDA when he has debunked it.” Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
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Hope they keep to their words
ReplyDeleteMEND! MEND!! MEND!!! Stop throwing spanner in the wheels of progress. Accept that your group lacks the clout to dictate Niger Delta affairs.
ReplyDelete