The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the leading socio-political organization representing the South-South geopolitical zone, has expressed deep concern over the escalating political tensions in Rivers State, where the state House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy. In a bid to avert further instability, PANDEF has announced the formation of a high-level reconciliation committee chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON.
In a press statement issued on January 9, 2025, PANDEF described the situation as “deeply disturbing” and urged all parties involved to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue to prevent a breakdown of law and order. The forum highlighted Rivers State’s strategic importance to the Niger Delta region and Nigeria’s overall socio-political stability and economic well-being.
“This is a deeply disturbing situation that demands urgent attention in order to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order,” the statement read. PANDEF emphasized its non-partisan role as a unifying platform for the region, calling on stakeholders to prioritize peace, development, and the welfare of Rivers State’s residents, as well as the broader interests of the South-South zone, Nigerians, and the expatriate community.
The forum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders from Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their efforts in restoring stability. However, PANDEF stressed the need for a dedicated intervention, drawing on its history of peace-building initiatives in the Niger Delta.
To address the crisis, PANDEF has constituted a seven-member committee of eminent Nigerians, primarily from the South-South zone, to facilitate a peaceful resolution through an inclusive process. The committee includes:
Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON (Former Attorney-General of the Federation) – Chairman
Senator Obende Domingo (Former Senator, Edo North) – Vice Chairman
Rt Hon (Chief) Essien Nduese, CON (Former Minister of Housing) – Member
Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, OON (Retired Federal Permanent Secretary) – Member
Chief Mike Ejiofor (Retired Director, Department of State Service) – Member
Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN (Former Attorney-General, Cross River State) – Member
Prince Godwin Okotie (Deputy National Secretary, PANDEF) – Secretary.
PANDEF appealed to all parties to cooperate fully with the committee, noting that its members are committing their time and expertise selflessly to achieve a “peaceful, fair, and sustainable resolution.”
The statement was jointly signed by King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR (Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass and Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees); Obong (Arc) Victor Attah (Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees); and Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON (National Chairman).
This development comes amid ongoing political friction in Rivers State, which has drawn national attention due to its implications for regional security and economic activities, particularly in the oil-rich Niger Delta.
PANDEF’s intervention underscores the forum’s commitment to fostering unity and good governance in the region.
