The Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) have expressed grave concern over the escalating political tension in Rivers State, following the decision of the State House of Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against the Governor and Deputy Governor.
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In a statement issued on Wednesday, PANDEF described the development as deeply disturbing and warned that it requires urgent intervention to prevent further escalation and a possible breakdown of law and order. The group noted that Rivers State occupies a strategic position in the Niger Delta and plays a critical role in Nigeria’s socio-political stability and economic wellbeing.
Reaffirming its non-partisan stance and long-standing role as a unifying platform for the South-South, PANDEF called on all parties involved to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue. It urged stakeholders to “sheathe the sword” and resolve their differences through tolerance, compromise, and political maturity, stressing that peace, good governance, and development must take precedence over partisan interests.
PANDEF also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their efforts—past and ongoing—aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state.
As part of its peace-building initiative, PANDEF announced the constitution of a high-level reconciliation committee to intervene in the crisis. The committee is chaired by Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON, a former Attorney-General of the Federation, with Senator Obende Domingo, former Senator for Edo North, serving as Vice Chairman. Other members include Rt. Hon. (Chief) Essien Nduese, CON; Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, OON; Chief Mike Ejiofor (rtd); Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN; while Prince Godwin Okotie, Deputy National Secretary of PANDEF, will serve as Secretary.
PANDEF called on all parties to extend full cooperation to the committee, describing its members as eminent and highly respected Nigerians committed to achieving a peaceful, fair, and sustainable resolution through an inclusive and dispassionate process.
The statement was jointly endorsed 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 of the Board; and Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, National Chairman of PANDEF.
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