By Francis Sadhere, Warri
WARRI — The Ijaw Women Rights Protection Forum (IWRPF) has condemned what it described as a growing campaign of blackmail, accusations and character assassination against prominent Niger Delta leaders, warning that internal attacks could undermine efforts to secure greater opportunities and development for the region.
The group, in a statement issued by its National President, Comrade Hilda Amogha, specifically defended High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo; Dr Dennis Burutu Otuaro; High Chief Kestin Pondi; Engr Matthew Tonlagha and other leaders who, according to the women, are contributing to the advancement of the Niger Delta.
The IWRPF said the region had endured decades of neglect, environmental degradation, unemployment, underdevelopment and limited economic opportunities, arguing that those making genuine efforts to reverse the situation should be encouraged rather than subjected to persistent attacks.
According to the group, disagreement and criticism are legitimate in any society, but deliberate blackmail and character assassination should not be allowed to become tools for settling personal grievances or competing for relevance.
The women urged youths and other individuals seeking political appointments, empowerment or recognition to exercise patience, stressing that attacking another person would not automatically create opportunities for them.
“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,” the statement said.
The group maintained that Niger Delta leaders should be held accountable where necessary, but insisted that such accountability must be based on facts and aimed at correcting wrongs rather than creating division.
It warned that continued infighting among the people could weaken the region’s collective voice at a time when unity is needed to attract investment, development and opportunities.
The IWRPF therefore called on Niger Deltans to celebrate one another’s achievements, support initiatives that advance the interests of the region and engage leaders through mature and constructive dialogue.
“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,” the women said.
The group stressed that the future of the Niger Delta should not be sacrificed on the altar of personal rivalry, urging stakeholders to put the collective interest of the region above individual ambitions.
It concluded with a call for unity, declaring: “One Niger Delta. One people. One voice. One common future.”
