Wike vs Fubara: PANDEF Establishes Mediation Committee to Address Rivers Political Tension

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Amid escalating tensions in Rivers State, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has intervened, calling for dialogue and political restraint to prevent the crisis from destabilizing the state and the wider Niger Delta region.

The socio-political body expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, and the Rivers State House of Assembly. PANDEF warned that without urgent action, the dispute could spiral into disorder, threatening both governance and public confidence.

Mediation Committee Announced

In response, PANDEF’s Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee announced on Friday the establishment of a seven-member reconciliation committee. The team is tasked with fostering dialogue and restoring calm between the rival political factions.

Former Attorney-General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi, will serve as committee chairman. The panel also includes:

Senator Obende Domingo (Vice Chairman)
Chief Essien Nduese
Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari
Chief Mike Ejiofor
Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem (SAN)
Prince Godwin Okotie (Committee Secretary)

The committee brings together experienced leaders with legal, political, and socio-cultural expertise, reflecting PANDEF’s emphasis on an inclusive and balanced reconciliation process.

PANDEF’s Statement on the Crisis

In a joint release, PANDEF leaders Alfred Diete-Spiff and Victor Attah (Co-Chairmen, Board of Trustees), along with National Chairman Godknows Igali, underscored the gravity of the situation:

“The Board and National Executive Committee of PANDEF, the foremost socio-political body of the South-South region, views with serious concern the unfolding political events in Rivers State. These developments have escalated to the point where the Rivers State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against the Governor and Deputy Governor. Immediate attention is required to prevent further deterioration and a collapse of law and order.”

The statement highlighted Rivers State’s pivotal role in national development, the economy, and political stability. PANDEF stressed that maintaining peace in the state is crucial not only for residents but also for Nigerians and the expatriate community living there.

Calls for Dialogue and Cooperation

Describing itself as a “unifying and motherly platform” for the South-South region, PANDEF urged all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, political maturity, and mutual respect. The organization appealed to participants to focus on protecting development, citizens’ welfare, and the state’s broader strategic interests.

The statement also recognized previous peace efforts by President Bola Tinubu, APC leaders, and local elders. PANDEF encouraged all parties to fully support the newly formed committee:

“We urge full cooperation with this esteemed and respected group of senior Nigerians and distinguished sons and daughters of the South-South region, who are dedicating their time and expertise toward achieving a peaceful, balanced, and lasting solution through an objective and inclusive process.”

Commentary and Analysis

Analysts observe that PANDEF’s intervention demonstrates the critical role of regional socio-political bodies in mitigating political crises. By assembling a committee with legal, political, and cultural credentials, the organization signals a commitment to neutral and credible mediation.

The escalation in Rivers—marked by impeachment proceedings against both the governor and deputy governor—reflects broader challenges in Nigerian state politics, where legislative conflicts often exacerbate governance instability. PANDEF’s approach emphasizes consensus-building and highlights the importance of third-party facilitation in preventing political disputes from undermining public trust and regional stability.

Experts suggest that the success of the committee will hinge on the willingness of both Fubara and Wike’s camps to engage constructively, setting a precedent for conflict resolution in other politically sensitive regions of the country.