PANDEF Calls For Restraint, Mutual Forbearance In Rivers

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called for restraint and mutual forbearance over the recent political development in Rivers.

The forum has also set up a high level reconciliation committee chaired by a former Attorney-General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN).

This was contained in a press statement in Abuja on Saturday.

The statement was jointly signed by PANDEF’s Board of Trustees Co-Chairmen, Alfred Diete-Spiff, and Obong Victor Attah, a former governor , Akwa Ibom, as well as PANDEF’s National Chairman, Godknows Igali.

Accordingg to the statement, the Board and National Executive Committee of PANDEF, notes with very grave concern the recent spate of political developments in Rivers.

“Regrettably, these developments have now degenerated into the decision of the Rivers State House of Assembly to commence impeachment proceedings against the governor and deputy governor

“This is a deeply disturbing situation that demands urgent attention in order to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order.

“This concern is heightened by the critical importance and strategic centrality of Rivers to the Niger Delta region and to the broader socio-political stability and economic wellbeing of Nigeria as a whole”.

The forum called on all parties involved in the resurgent political imbroglio to sheathe their sword and embrace peace.

“This should be guided by the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity.

“All stakeholders must place paramount importance on peace, development and the welfare of the people of Rivers.

“We must now focus squarely on good governance and development of the stat,” the forum said.

It commended President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their previous and ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the state. (NAN)