Abuja: The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called for restraint and mutual forbearance over the recent political developments in Rivers. The Forum has also set up a high-level Reconciliation Committee chaired by Kanu Agabi (SAN), a former Attorney-General of the Federation. This is contained in a press statement in Abuja. The statement was jointly signed by PANDEF’s Board of Trustees Co-Chairmen, Alfred Diete-Spiff and Obong Victor Attah, a former governor of Akwa Ibom, as well as PANDEF’s National Chairman, Godknows Igali.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Board and National Executive Committee of PANDEF noted with grave concern the recent spate of political developments in Rivers. The statement expressed regret that these developments have degenerated into the decision of the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against the governor and deputy governor. The forum described this as a deeply disturbing situation that demands urgent attention to prevent further escalation and a breakdown of law and order.
The concern is heightened by the critical importance and strategic centrality of Rivers to the Niger Delta region and to the broader socio-political stability and economic well-being of Nigeria as a whole. PANDEF has called on all parties involved in the resurgent political imbroglio to sheathe their swords and embrace peace. It emphasized that this should be guided by the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity.
The forum urged all stakeholders to place paramount importance on peace, development, and the welfare of the people of Rivers. It called for a focus on good governance and the development of the state, urging all parties to prioritize these goals.