The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political organisation of the South-South geopolitical zone, has expressed deep concern over the escalating political tensions in Rivers State, warning that the unfolding crisis poses serious risks to peace, stability, and good governance in the state and the wider Niger Delta region. In response to the worsening situation, PANDEF has called for restraint among all political actors and announced the constitution of a high-level reconciliation committee chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON, to intervene and facilitate a peaceful resolution.
In a press statement issued following an emergency review by its Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee, PANDEF described as “deeply disturbing” the decision by the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against the Governor and Deputy Governor of the state. According to the group, the development represents a dangerous escalation of political disagreements that, if left unchecked, could undermine democratic governance and threaten public order.
PANDEF noted that Rivers State occupies a strategic and symbolic position not only within the Niger Delta but also in the broader Nigerian federation. As one of the country’s major economic and energy hubs, the state plays a pivotal role in national revenue generation, regional security, and socio-political stability. Any prolonged instability in Rivers State, the group warned, could have far-reaching implications for the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
The organisation stressed that the current trajectory of events demands urgent and responsible intervention by all stakeholders. It called on political leaders, lawmakers, party officials, and their supporters to exercise maximum restraint and embrace dialogue rather than confrontation. PANDEF urged the parties involved to “sheathe the sword” and recommit themselves to the values of tolerance, compromise, and mutual forbearance in the interest of peace and development.
Emphasising its non-partisan posture, PANDEF said it remains guided by its historic role as a unifying and stabilising platform for the peoples of the South-South zone. The forum appealed to all actors to rise above narrow political interests and personal ambitions and instead prioritise the welfare of the people of Rivers State. According to PANDEF, governance should be focused on delivering development, strengthening institutions, and improving the living conditions of citizens, rather than being consumed by protracted political battles.
The group further noted that the stakes extend beyond Rivers State alone. With a significant expatriate population and a complex socio-economic structure, the state requires a stable political environment to function effectively. Continued uncertainty, PANDEF cautioned, could erode investor confidence, disrupt economic activities, and exacerbate social tensions in an already sensitive region.
PANDEF also acknowledged and commended the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other concerned Nigerians who have intervened or are working behind the scenes to restore calm. According to the forum, these efforts demonstrate a shared recognition of the gravity of the situation and the need for collective action to avert a breakdown of law and order.
However, drawing on its long-standing tradition and proven record in peace-building across the Niger Delta, PANDEF announced that it has taken the additional step of setting up a high-powered reconciliation committee to engage all parties and chart a path toward a peaceful and sustainable resolution. The committee, composed of eminent Nigerians with deep experience in law, governance, security, and public service, is expected to operate in a fair, inclusive, and dispassionate manner.
The reconciliation committee will be chaired by Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and a respected elder statesman known for his legal acumen and commitment to national unity. He will be supported by Senator Obende Domingo, a former Senator representing Edo North, who will serve as Vice Chairman.
Other members of the committee include Rt. Hon. (Chief) Essien Nduese, CON, a former Minister of Housing; Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, OON, a retired Federal Permanent Secretary; and Chief Mike Ejiofor, a retired Director of the Department of State Services, bringing valuable security expertise to the team. Also on the committee is Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN, a former Attorney-General of Cross River State, while Prince Godwin Okotie, Deputy National Secretary of PANDEF, will serve as Secretary.
PANDEF called on all parties involved in the Rivers State political crisis to give their full cooperation to the committee, noting that its members have accepted the assignment in the spirit of service and regional solidarity. The forum expressed confidence that the stature, experience, and integrity of the committee members would inspire trust and encourage honest engagement among the contending sides.
According to PANDEF, the objective of the intervention is not to take sides, but to facilitate dialogue, reduce tensions, and help the parties reach a peaceful, fair, and enduring settlement that safeguards democratic institutions and the interests of the people. The forum stressed that only through sincere engagement and compromise can Rivers State return to a path of stability and progress.
The statement was jointly endorsed by prominent leaders of PANDEF, including King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass and Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Obong (Arc.) Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Co-Chairman of the Board; and Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, the National Chairman of PANDEF.
As tensions continue to simmer, PANDEF’s intervention signals a renewed push by regional leaders to prevent further deterioration of the political climate in Rivers State. The forum reiterated its belief that peace, dialogue, and respect for democratic norms remain the only viable path forward, urging all actors to act with wisdom, restraint, and a sense of history.
