Battle of Narratives: PANDEF Rejects IPOB’s Push to Include Niger Delta in Biafra Agenda

By Achimi muktar

Tensions flared on Wednesday as the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) locked horns over the inclusion of Niger Delta communities in IPOB's secessionist agenda. The heated exchange underscores the deep divisions within Nigeria’s geopolitical landscape, as both groups hold firmly to their visions of the future.

PANDEF Draws the Line

In a statement issued in Port Harcourt, PANDEF, through its National Youth Leader Donben Donyegha, categorically rejected any association with Biafra. The group reaffirmed its commitment to a united Nigeria founded on principles of equity, justice, and resource control.

Donyegha described IPOB’s alleged inclusion of Niger Delta communities in their plans as "provocative and insulting" and warned of strong resistance from Niger Delta youths.

“We, therefore, warn that the continued inclusion of PANDEF areas or communities into the so-called Biafra Republic is provocative. Any further attempt to disregard or belittle our leaders and fathers by claiming Niger Delta towns or territories as part of Biafra will meet strong resistance,” Donyegha declared.

He reiterated PANDEF’s vision for a united Nigeria under a true federal system, where states control their resources while contributing taxes to the central government.

IPOB Fires Back

In a swift response, IPOB spokesperson Emma Powerful dismissed PANDEF’s concerns, labeling them “garbage” and attributing the claims to misinformation from splinter groups. He clarified that IPOB does not compel any community to join the Biafran cause.

“IPOB is not part of the group forcing any community in Nigeria to join Biafra State. Those doing so in the name of Biafra are content creators from the Finland autopilot group, and they are not part of IPOB,” Powerful said.

He emphasized that IPOB’s strategy is rooted in peaceful advocacy, with a referendum as the ultimate tool for determining who aligns with the Biafran vision.

“When the referendum comes, people will decide what they want. Nobody will force them into the new nation called Biafra,” he stated, stressing that IPOB's focus remains unchanged until Biafra’s independence is recognized by the United Nations.

Clash of Ideologies

The disagreement highlights the ideological divide between PANDEF’s commitment to a restructured Nigeria and IPOB’s secessionist agenda. PANDEF advocates for greater autonomy within a united Nigeria, while IPOB seeks a separate state through self-determination.

While IPOB insists it is not imposing its agenda on anyone, PANDEF’s vocal opposition reflects the sensitivity of regional identities and the complexities of Nigeria’s political fabric.

As the debate continues, both groups appear steadfast in their positions, with PANDEF warning against further encroachments and IPOB calling for restraint and accuracy in public discourse.

This latest clash signals the need for dialogue and mutual understanding to navigate the contentious issues that define Nigeria’s future. For now, the question remains: can these divergent visions find common ground, or will the divide deepen further?