PANDEF reconciliation committee appeals for peace in Rivers State, calls on leaders to embrace forgiveness

The newly inaugurated PANDEF Reconciliation Committee on Rivers State, chaired by Chief Godwin Kanu Agabi, SAN, CON, has issued a statement urging political actors in the state to resolve ongoing disputes and prioritize the welfare of the people over personal interests. The inauguration took place on January 12, 2026.

In the statement, the committee expressed gratitude to God and to Ambassador Godknows Igali, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of PANDEF, as well as other trustees, singling out His Royal Majesty, King Alfred Papapraye Diete Spiff, former Governor of Rivers State and Amayanabo of Twon Brass, for his longstanding commitment to the South-South region and Nigeria as a whole.

The committee noted that the sacrifices of leaders like King Spiff helped bequeath the states of the South-South to their people, emphasizing that their guidance deserves careful attention.

The committee stated that its primary mandate is to explore ways of ending the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, which has persisted for too long.

“If it continues, it will call into question the commitment of the parties involved to the interest of the people of Rivers State and of the nation that is compelled to share in the pains and anxieties of that State,” the statement read.

Using a vivid allegory, the committee cautioned against stubbornness, comparing the situation to a clam and oyster that fought on the seashore even as a fisherman approached, only to be captured and cooked.

The committee warned that Rivers State must not suffer a similar fate due to political intransigence.

The statement stressed that the parties involved in the conflict share a common history and once worked together to attain political offices. The committee urged them to embrace humility, apologize where necessary, and forgive one another, emphasizing that “true greatness can be found in forgiving.”

While recognizing the challenges of political reconciliation, the committee insisted that the matter could be resolved internally without third-party imposition.

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They called on all parties to act with patience, tolerance, and prayerful reflection, arguing that invoking God in politics and governance is not sentimental but essential, given that appointments and leadership are ultimately owed to divine providence.

Chief Agabi singled out the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, His Excellency Nyesom Wike, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, commending their patriotism, courage, and past contributions to Rivers State.

He emphasized that both leaders are capable of leading reconciliation efforts due to their proven commitment to public service.

The committee also appealed to the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly to exercise forgiveness toward the governor and to demonstrate maturity, restraint, and a public-spirited approach in navigating the political divide.

Clarifying the committee’s role, Chief Agabi stated that it is not a judicial body and has no mandate to pass judgment. Its sole purpose is to facilitate dialogue, encourage reconciliation, and appeal to political actors to prioritize peace.

The committee concluded with an urgent appeal: “We urge them, we beg them, we appeal to them. Sacrifices are called for. Make them and let there be peace.”