The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the leading socio-political body representing the South-South region, has lauded the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, for his decisive leadership in addressing the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
In an open letter dated April 16, 2025, and signed by PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows B. Igali, the group expressed “profound appreciation” to the 10th House of Representatives for constituting an Adhoc Oversight Committee to review the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the role of the state’s House of Assembly.
Ambassador Igali described the move as “a strong affirmation of the critical role parliaments have historically played in fostering democracy,” praising the House’s courage and constitutional alignment in the face of a complex political development.
“The decision to offer impartial and dispassionate oversight has been resoundingly applauded by patriotic Nigerians across the country,” the letter read. Ambassador Igali particularly commended the appointment of Professor Julius Ihonvbere as Chair of the Committee, citing his global reputation and principled political track record.
PANDEF reiterated its opposition to the imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that the situation in the state does not meet the constitutional threshold for such a declaration. “Despite political disagreements, peace has been maintained in the state… not even a fly has been harmed,” Igali noted, while also criticizing the appointment of an Administrator to govern the state—a move PANDEF described as a “constitutional aberration.”
The letter raised concerns over the Administrator’s recent governance decisions, including the dissolution of democratic institutions, appointment of Sole Administrators at the local government level, and suspension of ongoing procurement processes, which the Forum warned could compromise transparency and fiscal accountability.
Ambassador Igali further urged the Adhoc Committee to take a proactive role in restoring democratic order and facilitating a political resolution to the crisis. “The restoration of democracy in the state, most importantly through the reinstatement of its duly elected governor, is a mission of national importance—one that must be accomplished without delay,” the letter stated.
With Rivers State being a key hub in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, PANDEF emphasised the strategic importance of ensuring political stability in the region for national economic and democratic health.
