Nigerian rebel group wants peace talks before ceasefire

The Nigerian rebel group, Movement for Emancipation of the Niger Delta, stated on Wednesday that it wants peace talks before a ceasefire agreement.

MEND said on Wednesday that they're willing to commit to a ceasefire only if the Nigerian government is seriously considering to a peace talks discussion, according to Reuters. The group lifted a three-month old ceasefire last week and said it would continue its campaign of violence against the government. In a written statement released to the public, the rebels said, “MEND will consider the option after we are convinced the government is serious and sincere about engaging our team of negotiators in constructive dialogue on the root issues that has led to years of agitations and armed rebellion.” As AFPreports, MEND’s attacks against the oil refineries have cut up to one-third of production. Currently, Nigeria is the eighth largest oil producer in the world. MEND’s motives for attacking these oil refineries are because they want the government to give a larger portion to Nigerians. Former Information Minister, Edwin Clark, has urged the rebels not to continue their violent campaign by saying, “We are appealing to MEND not to resume hostilities. They should give peace a chance.” Timiebi Koripamo-Agary, a spokesperson for a panel overseeing the amnesty exercise, also urged MEND to embrace peace, “I sincerely hope that MEND respects the wish of Nigerians... to end a chapter of violent struggle and participate in addressing fundamental issues for the healing growth of he Niger Delta and Nigeria.” Since 2006, several hundred civilians and fighters have been killed but no precise death toll has been calculated. The President’s spokesperson, Olusegun Adeniyi, told the press, “Mr. President is ready to dialogue with any group or persons who can help bring lasting peace to the Niger Delta.” According to BBC News, the Nigerian government has given 10 per cent ($338 million) of oil revenues to the people in the Niger Delta, which is one of the key demands from MEND. However, this is not pleasing communities outside of the Delta because higher revenues to communities within the Delta would mean less revenues for them.