The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has moved decisively to arrest the deepening political crisis in Rivers State, warning that the ongoing impeachment move against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy could plunge the state, and by extension the Niger Delta, into avoidable instability.
Expressing grave concern over the development, the apex South-South socio-political organisation described the impeachment process initiated by the Rivers State House of Assembly as a dangerous escalation that demands urgent intervention to avert a breakdown of law and order.
The statement was jointly signed by King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass and Co-Chairman of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees; Obong (Arc.) Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Co-Chairman, BOT; and Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, National Chairman of PANDEF.
PANDEF noted that Rivers State occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s political economy and energy security, stressing that prolonged political tension in the state could have far-reaching consequences for the Niger Delta region and the nation at large.
Calling for immediate restraint, the forum urged all parties to sheathe their swords and embrace dialogue, tolerance and mutual forbearance, insisting that political disagreements must not override the collective interest of peace, development and good governance.
In a strong appeal, PANDEF said stakeholders must rise above bitterness and brinkmanship and place the welfare of Rivers people, the South-South region and the wider Nigerian populace above partisan considerations, warning that continued hostilities could derail development and scare away investment.
While commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress and respected elders of Rivers State for efforts already made to restore calm, PANDEF announced the constitution of a high-powered reconciliation committee to mediate in the crisis.
The committee, chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, is made up of eminent Nigerians with deep experience in governance, security and conflict resolution. Members include former Edo North Senator Obende Domingo (Vice Chairman); former Minister of Housing, Rt. Hon. Essien Nduese; retired Federal Permanent Secretary Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari; former Director of the Department of State Services Chief Mike Ejiofor; and former Cross River State Attorney-General Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN, with Prince Godwin Okotie, PANDEF’s Deputy National Secretary, serving as Secretary.
PANDEF called on all political actors and institutions in Rivers State to give the committee maximum cooperation, describing its assignment as critical to restoring peace, fairness and political stability in the state.
The forum reaffirmed its non-partisan stance and long-standing role as a stabilising force in the Niger Delta, expressing confidence that the Agabi-led team would midwife a peaceful and sustainable resolution, allowing Rivers State to return its full focus to governance, development and the wellbeing of its people.
