The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) is hopeful that its Peace and Reconciliation Committee, led by former Akwa Ibom Governor Chief Obong Victor Attah, will mediate in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State and the wider South-South region. The crisis, fueled by the power struggle between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara over control of the state’s PDP structure, has created significant tensions.
At PANDEF’s recent assembly in Port Harcourt on October 24, the apex Niger Delta group established the high-level committee, which includes prominent South-South leaders like former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa Rear Admiral G. John-Jonah, Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, and Senator Stella Omu.
Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Christopher Ominimini, PANDEF’s national spokesperson, emphasized that this committee, with guidance from PANDEF’s chair Amb. Dr. Godknows Igali, is fully committed to mediating and defusing political unrest throughout the South-South. “No stone will be left unturned,” Ominimini said, urging all levels of government and relevant organizations to cooperate fully with the committee to bring long-term peace to the region.
Ominimini expressed confidence that the committee’s efforts will address the root causes of these conflicts and restore stability to the Niger Delta. He reassured the South-South and Nigerians at large that PANDEF’s mediation will ultimately resolve the crisis, fostering unity across tribal and political lines.
