The Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) have expressed grave concern over the escalating political developments in Rivers State, particularly the decision of the Rivers State House of Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against the Governor and Deputy Governor of the state.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the apex socio-political body of the South-South described the situation as deeply disturbing, warning that it could degenerate into a broader breakdown of law and order if not urgently addressed.
PANDEF noted that the concern is heightened by the strategic importance of Rivers State to the Niger Delta region and its critical role in Nigeria’s socio-political stability and economic wellbeing.
Maintaining its non-partisan stance and long-standing role as a unifying platform for the region, PANDEF called on all parties involved in the political crisis to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue, tolerance, and mutual forbearance.
The group urged stakeholders to prioritise peace, development, and the welfare of the people of Rivers State, as well as the interests of the wider South-South region, Nigerians at large, and the expatriate community resident in the state.
PANDEF stressed that the prevailing circumstances demand a renewed focus on good governance and sustainable development, rather than actions capable of deepening political divisions.
The forum also commended Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.
In line with its tradition of peace-making and conflict resolution across the Niger Delta,
PANDEF announced the constitution of a high-level reconciliation committee made up of eminent Nigerians to intervene in the crisis.
The committee is chaired by Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON, former Attorney-General of the Federation, with Senator Obende Domingo, former Senator representing Edo North, as Vice Chairman. Other members include Rt. Hon. (Chief) Essien Nduese, CON, former Minister of Housing; Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, OON, retired Federal Permanent Secretary; Chief Mike Ejiofor, retired Director of the Department of State Services; and Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN, former Attorney-General of Cross River State. Prince Godwin Okotie, Deputy National Secretary of PANDEF, will serve as Secretary of the committee.
PANDEF called on all parties involved in the Rivers political dispute to fully cooperate with the committee, describing its members as highly respected sons and daughters of the South-South who have selflessly committed their time and experience to achieving a peaceful, fair, and sustainable resolution through an inclusive and dispassionate process.
The statement was jointly signed by:
King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR
Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass
Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees
Obong (Arc.) Victor Attah
Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State
Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees
Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON
National Chairman, PANDEF
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