The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep concern over the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, following the decision of the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy.

In a press statement issued on Friday, the apex socio-political body of the South-South zone warned that the development was disturbing and required urgent intervention to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state.

The statement was jointly signed by the Co-Chairmen of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees, King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass, and Obong (Arc) Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, as well as the National Chairman of PANDEF, Ambassador (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON.

PANDEF noted that Rivers State occupies a strategic position in the Niger Delta and plays a critical role in Nigeria’s socio-political stability and economic wellbeing, stressing that prolonged political instability in the state could have far-reaching consequences beyond the region.

Calling for calm, the group urged all parties involved in the political impasse to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue, tolerance and mutual forbearance in the interest of peace and development.

“PANDEF calls on all parties involved in the resurgent political imbroglio to sheathe the sword and embrace peace, guided by the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity,” the statement said.

The forum emphasised that stakeholders must prioritise the welfare of Rivers people, other residents of the South-South, Nigerians at large, and the expatriate community in the state, urging a renewed focus on good governance and development.

PANDEF also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), elders of Rivers State and other concerned Nigerians for their previous and ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the state.

As part of its intervention, PANDEF announced the constitution of a high-level reconciliation committee to mediate in the crisis. The committee is to be chaired by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON.

Other members of the committee include former Senator for Edo North, Senator Obende Domingo, as Vice Chairman; former Minister of Housing, Rt. Hon. Chief Essien Nduese, CON; retired Federal Permanent Secretary, Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, OON; former Director of the Department of State Services, Chief Mike Ejiofor; and former Attorney-General of Cross River State, Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN. The Deputy National Secretary of PANDEF, Prince Godwin Okotie, will serve as Secretary.

PANDEF called on all parties in Rivers State to fully cooperate with the committee, describing its members as eminent Nigerians with the experience and credibility to facilitate a peaceful and sustainable resolution.