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The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by Chief Edwin Clark, has formed a High-Level Peace and Reconciliation Committee aimed at mediating the ongoing conflict between Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
This decision was announced in a communique following PANDEF’s Special General Assembly meeting in Port Harcourt over the weekend.
The committee is tasked with resolving disputes and conflicts within the region, not limited to the Wike-Fubara situation.
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The communique was signed by notable figures, including King Alfred Diette-Spiff, the Amayanabo of Twon Brass and Co-Chairman of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees; Obong Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and also Co-Chairman; Dr. Godknows B. Igali, National Chairman; and other key members.
Obong Victor Attah will lead the reconciliation committee, which includes prominent figures such as Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, Senator Rowland Owie, Senator Stella Omu, Rear Admiral G. John-Jonah, H.E. Pam Ogar, and Rt. Hon. Dr. Stella Dorgu.
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Although the communique did not specifically mention the political rift between Wike and Fubara, PANDEF’s spokesman confirmed that the committee’s mandate includes addressing their conflict.
The tension between the former governor Wike and Fubara has been ongoing since Fubara took office in 2023, primarily revolving around power dynamics in Rivers State.
Their strained relationship persists despite interventions from President Bola Tinubu and other stakeholders.
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In addition to the reconciliation efforts, PANDEF strongly condemned President Tinubu’s recent decision to dissolve the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs.
The organization urged the federal government to engage in further discussions regarding this move, highlighting the importance of the ministry in addressing the unique challenges faced by the Niger Delta region.
The communique emphasized that the Ministry of Niger Delta was established to tackle specific issues related to the region’s environment and economic significance.
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While PANDEF welcomed the proposed South-South Commission, it insisted that the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) should accurately reflect its functions and membership.
Recognizing the need for educational improvements in the region, PANDEF called on state governments to implement tuition-free education at all levels.
They proposed that each of the 185 local government areas should host at least one tertiary institution, with a minimum annual budget allocation of 25% for education in line with UNESCO recommendations.
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Furthermore, PANDEF urged the federal government to repair dilapidated roads, complete the East-West Highway, initiate the Calabar-Lagos railway project, and establish a maritime mass transit system for the Niger Delta’s riverine communities.
The assembly, held on October 24, 2024, at the Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt, was attended by delegates from all six state chapters and various dignitaries, including former governors, military leaders, and representatives from ethnic organizations.
The theme of the assembly was “Fostering Peace and Unity for Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta.”
The gathering featured goodwill messages from prominent South-South leaders, underscoring the region’s commitment to peace and progress.
