
PANDEF Hails Lifting of State of Emergency in Rivers State
“We say to the political leaders and people of Rivers State, who were the true victims of the dark days, that light has returned to the state and a new glorious dawn has come”
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“We say to the political leaders and people of Rivers State, who were the true victims of the dark days, that light has returned to the state and a new glorious dawn has come”
“As a coalition of elders, statesmen, and stakeholders from Nigerian major socio-cultural groups committed to the unity, justice, and progress of our dear country, we cannot ignore the fact that a healthy democracy thrives on the presence of a credible, organized, and vibrant opposition.”
PANDEF therefore calls upon the relevant authorities, most especially, President Bola Tinubu, as the father of the nation, and the National Assembly, led by our own son, Senator Godswill Akpabio to act without delay to restore democratic governance in Rivers State. The prolonged political crisis in the state has created an environment of instability and uncertainty that directly impacts the well-being of everyday citizens.
As a body that represents the interests of the South-South citizens, PANDEF reaffirmed its dedication to pursuing peace and stability in the region. The forum aims to foster constructive dialogue with the Federal Government to address the situation in Rivers State.
Many Nigerian states, particularly in the North East, North West and North Central geopolitical zones live with daily assaults on their very existence. Yet, no state of emergency has been declared!
“Mr. President,” Ambassador Igali urged, “we implore you to prevail upon the Honourable Minister to extend due respect to these eminent Nigerians and traditional rulers who were esteemed guests of the Commander-in-Chief. The Minister does not own the Niger Delta, and his conduct should not be condoned.”
PANDEF hereby calls upon Mr. President, as the father of the nation, to prevail upon the Honourable Minister to retract his inflammatory statements and extend due respect to these eminent Nigerians and traditional rulers who were, after all, esteemed guests of the Commander-in-Chief. It is apt to remind that the Minister does not own the Niger-Delta and his errant conduct should not be condoned.
“Depriving the state of its rightful allocations imposes undue hardship on a people who have consistently contributed to national sustenance”
PANDEF appealed to Mr. President to prioritise the completion of the Itu-Calabar road by funding competent contractors as a fitting tribute to the memory of Senator Wayas.
The PANDEF leader again cautioned all political actors and leaders in Rivers State, as well as youth and women’s groups, to sheath their swords and follow the example set by the federal government in de-escalating tension while the reconciliation efforts are ongoing.