The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political organization representing the South-South geopolitical zone, has expressed deep concern over the escalating political tensions in Rivers State, where the State House of Assembly has initiated impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his Deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu.
In a statement issued following an emergency meeting of its Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee, PANDEF described the situation as “deeply disturbing” and warned that further escalation could lead to a breakdown of law and order. The group highlighted Rivers State’s strategic importance to the Niger Delta region and Nigeria’s overall socio-political stability and economic well-being.
The latest crisis stems from the Rivers State House of Assembly’s decision, announced on January 8, 2026, to commence impeachment proceedings under Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). A notice of alleged gross misconduct, signed by 26 lawmakers and dated January 5, 2026, was read during plenary and will be served on the governor within seven days.
Allegations include extra-budgetary spending, withholding funds from the Assembly, and failure to present the 2026 Appropriation Bill, among others. The House, presided over by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, has also barred the governor from presenting the Mid-Term Expenditure Framework and the 2026 budget until the probe concludes, with proceedings adjourned to January 15.
This marks the third attempt to impeach Governor Fubara since 2023, amid a prolonged rift involving his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Maintaining its non-partisan stance and role as a unifying platform for the region, PANDEF called on all parties involved, including the governor, the House of Assembly, and other stakeholders to exercise restraint, sheathe their swords, and embrace peace through dialogue, tolerance, give-and-take, and political equanimity.
The forum emphasized that peace, good governance, development, and the welfare of Rivers State’s people, as well as the broader South-South region and Nigeria, must take priority. It also noted the presence of a significant expatriate community in the state.
PANDEF commended President Bola Ahmed 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 to restore stability.
In a proactive step consistent with its history of peace-making in the Niger Delta, PANDEF has constituted a high-level reconciliation committee of eminent Nigerians to intervene and facilitate a peaceful, fair, and sustainable resolution through an inclusive and dispassionate process.
The committee comprises:
• Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON (Former Attorney-General of the Federation) – Chairman
• Senator Obende Domingo (Former Senator, Edo North) – Vice Chairman
• Rt Hon (Chief) Essien Nduese, CON (Former Minister of Housing) – Member
• Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari, OON (Retired Federal Permanent Secretary) – Member
• Chief Mike Ejiofor (Retired Director, Department of State Service) – Member
• Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem, SAN (Former Attorney-General, Cross River State) – Member
• Prince Godwin Okotie (Deputy National Secretary, PANDEF) – Secretary
PANDEF urged all parties to fully cooperate with this “distinguished and highly respected” team of senior Nigerians and sons and daughters of the South-South, who are committing their time and expertise to the assignment.
The statement was signed by PANDEF’s top leadership: King Alfred Diete-Spiff, CFR, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass and Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Obong (Arc) Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State and Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees; and Amb. (Dr.) Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, National Chairman.
