PANDEF Takes Action to Mediate Wike-Fubara Dispute, Forms Reconciliation Committee
The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), led by Chief Edwin Clark, has initiated a High Level Peace and Reconciliation Committee to address the ongoing tensions between Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.
This development was revealed in a communiqué following a special assembly meeting held in Port Harcourt over the weekend. The committee is charged with resolving the conflicts between the two political leaders and preventing further disputes in the region.
The communiqué was co-signed by prominent figures, including King Alfred Diette-Spiff, the Amayanabo of Twon Brass and former Military Governor of Rivers State; Obong Victor Attah, former Governor of Akwa Ibom State; and Dr. Godknows B. Igali, among others.
Obong Victor Attah will lead the Reconciliation Committee, which also includes Senator Emmanuel Ibok-Essien, former Senate Whip Senator Rowland Owie, and others. The assembly established the committee to mediate and resolve disputes in the area, although Wike and Fubara are not direct members of the committee. However, the spokesperson confirmed that addressing their conflict is part of the committee’s mandate.
The rift between Wike and Fubara has persisted since Fubara took office in 2023, fueled by struggles over power and influence in Rivers State. Despite interventions from President Bola Tinubu and other stakeholders, tensions remain high.
In a related matter, PANDEF condemned the recent dissolution of the Ministry of Niger Delta Affairs by President Tinubu, urging the federal government to consult with key stakeholders to address significant concerns, especially in light of ongoing policies aimed at increasing oil production.
The organization emphasized that the ministry was established to tackle unique issues affecting the Niger Delta, including environmental damage and its economic significance. While welcoming the proposed South-South Commission, PANDEF insisted that the name of the Niger Delta Development Commission should accurately reflect its functions.
In addition, PANDEF called on state governments to ensure tuition-free education at all levels in the Niger Delta and advocated for a minimum annual budget support of 25% for education, aligning with UNESCO recommendations. They also urged the federal government to repair damaged roads, complete the East-West Highway, and initiate the Calabar-Lagos railway project, among other infrastructure improvements.
The assembly convened on October 24, 2024, and was attended by various dignitaries, including former governors, military leaders, and representatives from different sectors. The theme was “Fostering Peace and Unity for Sustainable Development of the Niger Delta,” with goodwill messages from notable leaders in the region.
