PANDEF declares seven days of mourning for Dele Cole

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) declared seven days of mourning, beginning October 18, 2026, for its leader Patrick Dele Cole, who died in London at age 86. It directed its chapters in Nigeria and the diaspora to suspend official social activities and display his photograph on their platforms. Cole was editor-in-chief of the Daily Times of Nigeria, a presidential adviser on foreign affairs and Nigeria’s ambassador to Brazil; he also advocated federalism and resource control for the Niger Delta. PANDEF extended condolences to his family, the people of Abonnema, the Ijaw nation and residents of Rivers State.