The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has taken a decisive step to intervene in the protracted political turmoil in Rivers State by establishing a high-powered peace committee. The group has given the newly formed body a strict 14-day deadline to complete its mission and present a detailed report.
Mandate and Composition of the Peace Committee
PANDEF officially inaugurated a seven-member High-Level Peace and Reconciliation Committee on January 12, 2026. The committee's formation was authorized by PANDEF’s National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali. To lead this critical assignment, the forum appointed a legal luminary, former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Kanu Godwin Agabi, SAN, CON, as the chairman.
The core mandate of this committee is to de-escalate the severe political tensions in Rivers State. These tensions stem primarily from the ongoing standoff between the state governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Key Tasks and Terms of Reference
The committee has received a comprehensive set of instructions from PANDEF. Its first major task is to identify all principal actors at the heart of the dispute, particularly those involved in the rift between the Governor and the Speaker of the House of Assembly.
Furthermore, the committee is expected to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders whose influence could be pivotal for peace. This list includes:
- The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory
- Former governors of the state
- Elders and traditional rulers from the Niger Delta region
- Other leading political figures
A central objective is to facilitate open and constructive dialogue between Governor Fubara and the State Assembly. The aim is to address underlying grievances and forge a resolution acceptable to all parties.
The terms of reference also direct the committee to:
- Recommend concrete steps for restoring political stability and reconciliation.
- Identify measures to restore law and order while safeguarding citizen welfare and security.
- Promote tolerance, compromise, and political balance to prevent further escalation.
- Ensure any resolution respects the democratic will of Rivers people and complies with the constitution.
- Protect all confidential information shared during talks to build trust.
Timeline and Expected Outcome
PANDEF has imposed a tight schedule on the committee, demanding that it concludes its extensive assignment within 14 days. The committee is required to consult widely with individuals, groups, and institutions affected by the crisis to build a consensus for lasting peace.
Upon completion, the committee must submit a comprehensive report with its findings and recommendations. This report will be forwarded to two critical offices: the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Co-Chairmen of the PANDEF Board of Trustees.
PANDEF stated that this initiative highlights its unwavering commitment to fostering peace, democratic governance, and stability not just in the Niger Delta, but across Nigeria.
