PANDEF urges calm in Rivers political crisis, sets up Agabi-led reconciliation committee

By Kunle Sanni –

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep concern over the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, particularly the decision by the Rivers State House of Assembly to initiate impeachment proceedings against the governor and deputy governor.

In a statement issued on Friday by a former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Obong Victor Attah, after a meeting of its Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee, PANDEF described the development as disturbing and warned that it could threaten peace, law and order in the state if not urgently addressed.

The socio-political organisation noted that Rivers State occupies a strategic position in the Niger Delta and plays a critical role in Nigeria’s overall socio-political stability and economic wellbeing. It warned that prolonged instability in the state could have far-reaching consequences for the region and the country at large.

Calling for restraint, PANDEF urged all parties involved in the political standoff to embrace dialogue, tolerance and mutual compromise in the interest of peace and good governance. The group appealed to political actors to prioritise the welfare of the people of Rivers State, other residents of the South-South region, Nigerians nationwide and members of the expatriate community living in the state.

PANDEF also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), elders of Rivers State and other stakeholders for their ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.

As part of its intervention, PANDEF announced the constitution of a high-level reconciliation committee to mediate in the crisis. The committee will be chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON.