Rivers Political Crisis
PANDEF Sets Up High-Level Reconciliation Committee, Urges Restraint in Rivers Political Crisis
By: Favour Bibaikefie
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the foremost socio-political umbrella body for the South-South geopolitical zone, has expressed deep concern over the unfolding political tension in Rivers State, following the decision of the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy.
In a press statement issued by the organisation’s Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee, PANDEF described the situation as “a deeply disturbing” development that requires “urgent attention in order to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order.”
The Forum noted that its concern is further heightened by the strategic importance of Rivers State to the Niger Delta and the country. It stressed that the state remains critical to the socio-political stability and economic wellbeing of Nigeria.
Reaffirming its non-partisan posture, the Forum called on all actors in the political impasse to de-escalate tensions and prioritize collective interest over personal or partisan ambitions. PANDEF urged stakeholders to “sheathe the sword and embrace peace,” guided by “the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity.”
The organisation added that all parties must place paramount importance on peace, development, and the welfare of the people of Rivers State as well as the broader interests of the South-South region, Nigerians at large, and the expatriate community. “We must now focus squarely on good governance and development of the state,” it stated.
PANDEF also acknowledged and commended efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected Rivers elders, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their ongoing role in restoring calm. It noted that such interventions remain vital in averting serious instability.
As part of its intervention strategy, the Forum announced the constitution of a high-level reconciliation committee made up of prominent Nigerian statesmen. According to the statement, the committee—chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON—will work to engage all sides in pursuit of a peaceful and lasting solution.
Other members of the committee include:
- Senator Obende Domingo (Vice Chairman)
- Rt Hon (Chief) Essien Nduese, CON
- Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, OON
- Chief Mike Ejiofor (Rtd DSS Director)
- Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN
- Prince Godwin Okotie (Secretary)
PANDEF appealed to all stakeholders to cooperate fully with what it described as “this distinguished and highly respected team of senior Nigerians and sons and daughters of the South-South zone,” noting that the committee members are committing their “time and experience to this arduous assignment” with the aim of achieving “a peaceful, fair, and sustainable resolution through a dispassionate and inclusive process.”
The statement was jointly endorsed by King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass (Co-Chairman, BOT); Obong (Arc) Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State (Co-Chairman, BOT); and Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, National Chairman.
With its latest intervention, PANDEF reasserts its historical role in conflict management and peace-building, particularly across the Niger Delta region, where political stability remains vital to national economic security.
Rivers Political Crisis
Rivers Politics: King Dokubo Reaffirms Loyalty to Ijaw Cause, Addresses FCT Minister Wike in a Direct Message
By: Derick Peretengboro
Renowned Niger Delta Monarch and warlord, HRH, King Asari Dokubo, has issued a pointed message directed at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, declaring that the interests of the Ijaw people are not negotiable.
Speaking during a live session on his Facebook page, Dokubo emphasized his loyalty to both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. He noted that Tinubu is a long-standing personal associate, stating: “President Tinubu is my friend, and I will give him 100% support.”
At the same time, he reaffirmed his solidarity with Governor Fubara, describing him as a fellow Ijaw and insisting that he would not abandon him. “I cannot and will not sacrifice the Ijaw people for anything,” he declared, adding that Fubara deserves his backing.
Dokubo argued that Rivers State governors have historically completed two terms in office, stressing that the current occupant would not be treated differently. “Every governor of Rivers State has always done a second term. An Ijaw man will not be an exception,” he said.
He also touched on his own rise to traditional leadership, revealing that both allies and detractors doubted he would ascend to the throne. He credited Governor Fubara for playing a key role in elevating him to First Class monarch status. “Some people never wanted me to be a king, and even I did not believe I would become one,” he said. “But Governor Fubara made it possible by making me a First Class King, and I am grateful.”
Dokubo concluded by asserting that his remarks were aimed squarely at Wike, adding that his message had been unmistakably communicated.
Source: Ijaw Matters View Point on Facebook