2027: Ex-gov Attah, PANDEF chiefs deny backing any candidate

The Pan Niger Delta Forum announced on Tuesday that it is not supporting any presidential candidate in the upcoming 2027 general election. The forum, which remains non-partisan, urged voters in the South-South to select leaders based on their ability to meet the region's needs and advance the country's interests. National Chairman Ambassador Godknows Igali and ex-Akwa Ibom State Governor Victor Attah made these remarks during a press conference after a meeting with former governors, ministers, traditional rulers, and other stakeholders from the six South-South states.

Igali emphasized that PANDEF is a non-partisan organization, not a political party or support group, and called on the people of the South-South to vote according to their conscience, selecting candidates whose programs and commitments align with the Niger Delta's aspirations. Attah also urged Niger Delta officials holding federal government positions to demonstrate greater commitment to the organization's activities.

This announcement comes amid intensifying preparations for the 2027 election, with political parties and presidential candidates gearing up for the January polls. The South-South region, rich in oil and gas resources, plays a crucial role in national revenue generation, making it an important political bloc. PANDEF has consistently demanded a significant increase in the derivation allocation to oil-producing states, proposing to raise the current 13% minimum to 50%, aiming to address environmental pollution, infrastructure deficits, and other development challenges in the region.