Speakers at the event emphasised Alamieyeseigha’s pivotal role in the struggle for resource control and true federalism, noting that his contributions remain relevant to contemporary debates on Nigeria’s political structure.
“If we want this country to move forward, the sub-national governments should not be controlled from the centre. If we want this country to develop, you cannot use the resources from one region to create more local government areas in another region in order to feed that region and then starve the area where these resources are coming from. That is not federalism.”
“We need to work together as Africans and tell the story of how Africans are developing Africa. We are looking forward to a robust relationship with you.”
“I will set aside my differences with some politicians for one cause,” he declared. “I challenge every politician or person of conscience from the Southeast who says they want @MaziNnamdiKanu released to stop the rhetoric. Time for action is NOW. Let’s march to Aso Rock Villa.”
“This is just the start of many initiatives aimed at promoting economic growth and sustainable development.”
“We shall no longer remain passive observers while an individual who has dedicated the greater part of his life to championing justice for his people continues to suffer grave injustice. We, therefore, call for Okah’s immediate release.”
A key highlight of PANDEF’s message was the renewed call for urgent action on the longstanding infrastructural decay in the Niger Delta—the region that sustains the national economy. The forum emphasized that critical projects such as the East-West Road, the Benin–Auchi Road, the Benin–Warri Road, and the rehabilitation of major southern ports in Port Harcourt, Calabar, Onne, and Warri can no longer be ignored if Nigeria intends to unlock its full economic potential.
“As we celebrate these momentous occasions, I am excited about the prospects for our nation and state,” Ambaiowei stated. “With unity, effort, and dedication, we will overcome our challenges and build a brighter future for all.”
While affirming Jonathan’s constitutional right to contest, Onanuga noted that any attempt to return to the presidency would face both legal scrutiny and public judgment over his past performance. He questioned whether the former president remains eligible after being sworn in twice and warned that Nigerians still remember the “dismal economic record” of his administration.
“From the beginning of my tenure till today, I have consistently spoken about true federalism. We cannot afford to have Bayelsa, which produces the oil and gas for Nigeria, with only eight local government areas, while some states have 40 or 44. It is injustice.”
