The Ijaw Youths Council, IYC, has condemned the rising insecurity in the Niger Delta which has led to loss of lives and called on President Muhammadu Buhari to take over on-going peace talks.

In a statement by the IYC Spokesman, Eric Omare, in Yenagoa on Friday, the youth group noted that the insecurity in the region is rapidly deteriorating and seem to be getting out of control.

The group condemned the reported cases of attacks and killing of soldiers and civilians, and the destruction of oil facilities in Ogbeinbiri, Bayelsa State and Forcados export line, Delta state. The statement called on President Muhammad Buhari to personally take over the Niger Delta peace process to ensure that peace returns to the region.

“We in strong words condemn this senseless killing of soldiers and civilians that were working in the houseboat. We condemn this act of wickedness as it would only complicate an already delicate security situation. The IYC is of the view that to make the process effective and produce the required result, President Buhari must personally take charge and provide leadership.”

The youth group also called on the governors of the Niger Delta states to work together with community and youth leaders in the region to seek ways of returning peace to the area.

The IYC also passionately called on the Niger Delta Avengers and other militant groups and individuals to give peace a chance as the continuous bombing of oil facilities is not in the interest of the Niger Delta people.