The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) Reconciliation Committee on Rivers State has commenced efforts to resolve the protracted political crisis in the state, declaring its readiness to engage all parties and appeal for peace, forgiveness and reconciliation.
The committee, headed by former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Godwin Kanu Agabi, SAN, was inaugurated on January 12, 2026, under the auspices of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees, chaired by Ambassador Godknows Igali.
Speaking at the inauguration, Agabi said the committee was constituted to explore ways of ending the escalating political tensions in Rivers State, warning that a prolonged crisis could undermine the interests of the people of the state and the nation at large.
He paid tribute to the former Governor of Rivers State and Amayanabo of Twon Brass, King Alfred Papapraye Diete-Spiff, describing him as a statesman whose sacrifices helped shape the South-South region. Agabi said the committee was duty-bound to take seriously the monarch’s intervention and commitment to peace in the region.
Agabi cautioned that Rivers State, endowed with immense human and natural resources, could not afford to be consumed by political strife, urging all parties to learn from history and avoid destructive confrontations that could invite external consequences.
Expressing confidence in an amicable resolution, the committee chairman noted that the parties involved were once united and had supported one another to attain their current positions. He urged them to show humility by apologising where necessary and embracing forgiveness, which he described as a mark of true greatness.
According to him, the dispute could be resolved internally without external interference, provided the parties were willing to make sacrifices, exercise restraint and allow room for reconciliation. He also emphasised the role of faith, cautioning against the notion that God has no place in politics or governance.
Agabi acknowledged his personal relationships with key actors in the crisis, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, whom he described as courageous and patriotic, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, whom he said he trusted to honour their shared history.
He also expressed respect for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the presidential system entrusts the President with executive authority to stabilise the nation during periods of discord.
While affirming respect for members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Agabi appealed to them to consider forgiveness and restraint, which he said would demonstrate maturity and patriotism.
He stressed that the committee was not set up to judge any party but to appeal for reconciliation, urging all stakeholders to make the necessary sacrifices to ensure peace and stability in Rivers State.
“We urge them, we beg them, we appeal to them. Sacrifices are called for. Make them and let there be peace,” Agabi said.
