Rivers Political Conflict: PANDEF Urges Continued Support for Obong Victor Attah-Led Peace and Reconciliation Committee

By Iyojo Ameh

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political group of the South-South region, has reiterated its call for all parties involved in the ongoing Rivers State political conflict to fully support the Peace and Reconciliation Committee led by Obong Victor Attah.

In a statement signed by PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador B. Igali, OON, on Saturday, the forum emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in resolving the political crisis that has hindered development and peace in the state.

The Peace and Reconciliation Committee was constituted during PANDEF’s General Assembly on October 24, 2024. The committee, composed of respected elder statesmen and seasoned leaders from the Niger Delta region, is tasked with addressing the lingering political disputes in Rivers State.

Members of the Peace and Reconciliation Committee are:

1. Obong Victor Attah – Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and renowned national leader known for his dedication to peace and development.
2. Senator Roland Owie – Former Chief Whip of the 4th Senate of Nigeria with extensive experience in legislative affairs and conflict resolution.
3. Senator (Engr.) Emmanuel Ibok Essien – Former Chief Whip of the 5th Senate, respected engineer, and advocate for community development.
4. Chief (Mrs.) Senator Stella Omu – Former Chief Whip of the Senate and champion of public administration and women’s empowerment.
5. Col. Peter Asam Mbu Ogar (Rtd.) – Former ECOMOG Commander and ex-Military Governor of Kwara State with a background in conflict management.
6. Admiral John Jonah (Rtd.) – Former Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and former Commandant of the National Defence College, with expertise in strategic planning.
7. Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Stella Dorgu – Former member of the Federal House of Representatives, serving as the committee’s secretary.

PANDEF expressed concern over the use of social media platforms to spread falsehoods and incite tensions, warning that such actions could undermine the committee’s peace efforts. The forum called on all stakeholders to refrain from inflammatory comments and focus on supporting the reconciliation process.

“We urge all stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid actions or utterances capable of inflaming the situation. It is important to allow the committee to carry out its mandate to restore peace in Rivers State for the benefit of the people, the region, and the nation at large,” the statement read.

The ongoing political conflict in Rivers State has been described as counterproductive, causing divisions and hampering development. PANDEF’s initiative is seen as a timely intervention aimed at fostering peace and unity in the state.

The forum reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that the reconciliation process yields positive results and urged all parties to work towards a lasting solution that prioritizes the well-being of citizens and the stability of the region.