The Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) Reconciliation Committee, Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, has issued a passionate appeal for peace in Rivers State. He has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, and all other key stakeholders to embrace forgiveness and make necessary sacrifices. The appeal was made on 12 January 2026 as part of efforts to resolve the prolonged political crisis.
A Call for Humility and Forgiveness
Agabi, a former Attorney-General of the Federation, delivered the statement on behalf of the committee specifically established to find pathways to peace. He warned that the continuation of the crisis raises serious questions about the commitment of the involved political actors to the people of Rivers and national stability. "Rivers State is too important to Nigeria for anyone to stand by and do nothing," Agabi stated, highlighting the state's critical role in national development through its human and natural resources.
He cautioned against letting disagreements spiral out of control, using a powerful local parable. "Let Rivers State not be like the clam and the oyster that fought on the seashore until they were picked up by a fisherman and made into a meal," he warned. Agabi expressed strong confidence that the dispute could be settled amicably, reminding everyone that the parties were once united. "If they have offended one another, they must be humble enough to apologise and generous enough to forgive. True greatness lies in forgiveness," he emphasised.
Appeals to Key Figures and Institutions
Agabi paid glowing tribute to the intervention of King Alfred Papapraye Diete-Spiff, the former Governor of Rivers State and Amayanabo of Twon-Brass, noting his historic sacrifices for the South-South region. Speaking directly to the principals, he described Minister Nyesom Wike as courageous and patriotic, already immortalised by his gubernatorial record. He said the "hand of God" upon Wike calls him to lead the reconciliation.
Similarly, Agabi expressed personal confidence in Governor Siminalayi Fubara, recalling his role in defending the governor's election petition. He appealed to Fubara to honour the bond between them. Addressing the Rivers State House of Assembly, Agabi said PANDEF holds the lawmakers in high regard but urged them to demonstrate political maturity through forgiveness and restraint.
The Path Forward: Internal Reconciliation
The PANDEF committee chairman stressed that reconciliation must come primarily from within. He urged all parties to resist external escalation and instead show restraint, humility, and a willingness to make concessions. Agabi also expressed trust in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's capacity to discern truth amid the conflicting narratives, describing the president's stabilising role as central to Nigeria's presidential system.
Importantly, Agabi made it clear that the reconciliation committee was not constituted to apportion blame or sit in judgment. "Our duty is to appeal, to urge, and to beg for reconciliation," he stated. His final plea was direct: "Sacrifices are called for. Let them be made, and let there be peace in Rivers State." The call underscores the urgent need to halt a crisis that threatens the stability of one of Nigeria's most economically significant states.
