The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) reconciliation committee constituted to address the political crisis in Rivers State has held separate meetings with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
PANDEF National Chairman, Dr Godknows Igali, confirmed the development in an interview on Saturday, stating that the engagement marked significant progress in efforts to restore stability in the state.
The regional socio-political organisation had recently set up a seven-member reconciliation committee chaired by former Attorney General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN), to intervene in the prolonged political dispute in the oil-producing state.
According to Igali, the committee comprises respected national figures who are actively engaging key actors in the crisis. He said both Wike and Governor Fubara had shown readiness to cooperate with the peace process, noting that their willingness to grant audience to the committee was a positive sign.
“The committee is currently on the ground in Port Harcourt holding consultations with critical stakeholders. They have met extensively with the governor, met with Wike, and also held discussions with elders aligned with both sides,” he said.
Igali expressed optimism that the intervention would yield results, assuring residents that there was no immediate cause for concern. He stressed that instability in Rivers State would have far-reaching implications for the entire country, making peaceful resolution imperative.
He added that the committee was also engaging traditional rulers and political leaders across the divide, explaining that while it might not meet every lawmaker, it was consulting influential figures within the State House of Assembly.
“The entire nation is concerned, but the calibre of individuals involved in this reconciliation effort and the standing of PANDEF as a leading regional body have reassured stakeholders that progress is being made,” Igali stated.
Meanwhile, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has criticised the decision of the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly to continue impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu.
Speaking in an interview, INC President Professor Benjamin Okaba described the impeachment move as politically motivated and legally flawed, arguing that it lacked merit and would ultimately fail.
According to him, the process was driven by personal interests rather than the collective good of Rivers State or the advancement of democracy.
“This is not about governance or development. It is a clear case of vendetta, and it will end in futility,” Okaba said.
