The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the leading socio-political organization of the South-South region, has called on all stakeholders in the Rivers State political crisis to fully support the Peace and Reconciliation Committee led by Obong Victor Attah.
The committee was constituted at PANDEF’s General Assembly on October 24, 2024, to mediate and resolve the state’s ongoing political conflict.
In a statement signed by PANDEF National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, the forum emphasised the need for all parties to set aside their differences and cooperate with the committee to achieve a peaceful resolution. The statement highlighted the calibre of personalities on the committee, describing them as respected leaders who have committed to making personal sacrifices for the sake of peace.
They include: i. Obong Victor Attah: A renowned national leader and former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, known for his exemplary leadership and commitment to peace and development; ii. Senator Roland Owie: A seasoned politician and former Chief Whip of the 4th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with extensive experience in legislative affairs and conflict resolution; iii. Sen. (Engr.) Emmanuel Ibok Essien: A highly respected engineer and former Chief Whip of the 5th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with a strong track record in public service and community development.
iv. Chief (Mrs.) Sen. Stella Omu: A distinguished politician and former Chief Whip of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, with a wealth of experience in public administration and women’s empowerment; v. Col. Peter Asam Mbu Ogar: A decorated military officer and former ECOMOG Commander, former GOC 1st Division, Kaduna, and former Military Governor of Kwara State (1996-1998), with extensive experience in conflict management and resolution; vi. Admiral John Jonah: A highly respected naval officer and former military leader and Commandant, National Defence College and immediate past Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State with a strong background in strategic planning and conflict resolution vii. Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Stella Dorgu: A former member, of the Federal House of Representatives (Secretary).
“PANDEF notes with concern the recent resort to electronic and social media platforms to cast unfounded aspersions, spread falsehoods, and fuel tensions, all aimed at diverting the focus of this Committee and defeating the good purpose behind the peace & reconciliation effort.
“In this regard, we urge all stakeholders, not only to support the Committee but also to exercise restraint and avoid actions or utterances capable of inflaming the situation and causing further avoidable escalation, to pave the way for peace to return to the state for the sake of the citizens of the state, the region, and the nation at large.
PANDEF urged everyone to put the welfare of Rivers State and the Niger Delta area first, stressing the value of cooperation and group effort in its closing remarks.
