Given Chief Ibori's appeal I would suggest that our youth listen to him and give the govt a last chance to redeem itself because Mr. Ibori is a patriot with no ulterior motive to gain financially from the issues. Besides, the Professor is fully aware of the underlying cause for the activist's agitation and he's better placed to articulate them during their negotiation, suggest how the grassroots can implement, ensure that the fed govt is not wasting development funds by hiring foreigners to do what local citizens of the region can do for themselves. He can also act as the monitor of the so-called ND Minister (spit) as well as the Presidency's good faith (if it has any) effort to ensure that your demands are implemented to the letter. As Mr. Ibori said, there are times to hold it and there are times to fold it. Folding it doesn't mean capitulation, however. If folding doesn't work thru the conduct of the govt as it creeps back on its promises as it always do, the activist can always go back to holding their ground again. No more status quo of the past where govt just dictate anyhow without consultating with the actual stakeholders - the peoples of Niger Delta. But first, let the JTF pull back to show their good faith to ceasation of hostility. Also, the federal govt should publish its so called "Master Plan" for all to see what the govt have in mind & if it will suffice to meet the people's demands.....

It is refreshing to see a rebel group that conducts itself with dignity, self-control and respect for human life -- the world governments could learn a little from MEND.