In a decisive step toward restoring calm in the volatile political landscape of Rivers State, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has established a seven-member high-level peace and reconciliation committee. The panel was officially inaugurated in Abuja on Monday by PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali.
The committee is led by Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, a highly respected former Attorney-General of the Federation, and includes distinguished figures such as Senator Obende Domingo (Vice Chairman), former Housing Minister Chief Essien Nduese, retired Federal Permanent Secretary Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, retired DSS Director Chief Mike Ejiofor, former Cross River State Attorney-General Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN, and PANDEF Deputy National Secretary Prince Godwin Okotie (Secretary).
The initiative comes against the backdrop of heightened tensions between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state House of Assembly, where lawmakers—many aligned with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike—have initiated impeachment proceedings against the governor and his deputy. Accusations center on alleged gross misconduct, including failure to present the 2026 budget and other governance issues, amid claims that Fubara has not fully honored a previous peace accord facilitated by President Bola Tinubu.
Ambassador Igali emphasized that the committee’s primary mission is to de-escalate the conflict, bridge the divide between the executive and legislative arms, and pave the way for sustainable harmony in the oil-rich state. The panel will consult widely with critical stakeholders, including former governors, traditional rulers, elders, and key political figures like Minister Wike.
Key responsibilities assigned to the committee include:
- Pinpointing the main drivers and actors fueling the dispute.
- Fostering open dialogue and communication between Governor Fubara and the House of Assembly.
- Proposing practical steps to reinstate political stability, uphold law and order, and prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens.
- Advocating for mutual tolerance, compromise, and equitable political engagement while upholding democratic principles and constitutional guidelines.
- Upholding strict confidentiality throughout the process to encourage candid and trusting exchanges.
Also see: Nigeria Cuts Petrol Imports by 41% As Refineries Boost Output
The committee has been given a tight 14-day timeline to complete its work and deliver a detailed report with actionable recommendations. This report will be presented to PANDEF’s Board of Trustees and directly to President Bola Tinubu for further guidance.
In accepting the role, Chief Agabi described the assignment as a profound national duty, calling on all parties to embrace humility, forgiveness, and genuine dialogue. He cautioned that prolonged instability could severely harm the people of Rivers State and ripple into broader national challenges.
This intervention by PANDEF underscores the strategic importance of Rivers State to the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large, as the forum positions itself as a neutral, unifying force committed to peace, development, and the collective welfare of the region. All eyes are now on the committee’s efforts in the coming days, with hopes that dialogue will prevail over division.
