Niger Delta Lawyers For Equity (NDLF), a coalition of legal professionals from the Niger Delta region, has issued a stern call for an urgent national apology from President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff following the recent raid on the residence of South-South Leader Pa Edwin Clark by soldiers in search of weapons.
In a statement released by the group’s Coordinator, Akpokona Omafuaire, and Secretary, Amos David, the NDLF expressed shock and disbelief at the reported raid, describing it as an unacceptable display of force.
The group demanded an unreserved apology from the President and Chief of Defence Staff within one week, warning of legal action if their demands were not met.
The statement condemned the military operation near the Okuama community, where soldiers tragically lost their lives, while also extending condolences to the families of the slain officers.
However, the NDLF criticized the excessive use of force, asserting that the incident represented a gross overreach by the security forces.
Pa Edwin Clark, a prominent figure in the South-South and Niger Delta region, was highlighted as a symbol of the area’s struggle and resilience.
The raid on his home was described as not only a personal affront but also an insult to the entire region and its people.
The NDLF emphasized the need for balanced and restrained security measures, questioning why similar aggressive tactics were not deployed in addressing security challenges in other parts of the country.
They argued that Pa Clark’s outspoken condemnation of violence against soldiers should not have resulted in such a humiliating intrusion into his private property.
Furthermore, the group raised concerns about the perceived double standards in security operations, questioning whether similar actions would be taken against prominent leaders from other regions if similar incidents occurred elsewhere in the country.
The call for an apology from President Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff reflects growing discontent and frustration within the Niger Delta community over perceived injustices and heavy-handed tactics by security forces.
