The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has issued a strong appeal for calm and dialogue as the political crisis in Rivers State escalates. The apex socio-political body for Nigeria's South-South region expressed deep worry over the situation, which saw the state House of Assembly initiate impeachment proceedings against the Governor and Deputy Governor.
PANDEF Sounds Alarm Over Destabilising Tensions
In a statement released on 10 January 2026, PANDEF's leadership described the unfolding events as deeply troubling. The forum's Board of Trustees co-chairmen, King Alfred Diete-Spiff and Obong Victor Attah, alongside National Chairman Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, jointly signed the communiqué. They highlighted the immense strategic importance of Rivers State to both the Niger Delta and the national economy, warning that prolonged political instability poses severe risks to peace, security, and development.
The organisation, reaffirming its non-partisan stance, called on all involved parties to exercise maximum restraint. It urged stakeholders to prioritise the welfare of Rivers State citizens over political rivalry and refocus on governance and social stability.
High-Level Reconciliation Committee Inaugurated
To actively mediate and de-escalate the crisis, PANDEF announced the constitution of a high-powered reconciliation committee. This panel is tasked with engaging all sides to facilitate a peaceful resolution. The committee will be chaired by a former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON.
The committee's composition includes:
- Respected public servants
- Experienced legislators
- Security experts
- Legal practitioners from across the South-South zone
PANDEF expressed confidence that through inclusive dialogue and demonstrated goodwill, the committee can broker a fair and lasting solution to the political disagreement.
Calls for Cooperation and a Path Forward
PANDEF commended the ongoing efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Rivers State elders, and other concerned Nigerians aimed at restoring calm. The forum has called on all political actors and stakeholders in the state to extend their full cooperation to the newly established Agabi-led committee.
The forum reiterated that the paramount goals of peace, unity, and development must not be sacrificed on the altar of political strife. It stressed that dialogue remains the only viable path to ensuring the stability of a state so critical to the nation's wellbeing.
