The Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum has given its high level peace and reconciliation committee on Rivers State political crisis two weeks to carry out its work.
Though this is subject to review.
PANDEF National Chairman, Dr. Godknows Igali disclosed this on Monday at the inauguration of the committee which is headed by a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN.
Other members of the committee are Senator Obende Domingo (former Senator, Edo North) – Vice Chairman; Chief Essien Nduese, a former Minister of Housing; Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari.a retired Federal Permanent Secretary; Chief Mike Ejiofor, a retired director of the Department of State Service);Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem (SAN), a former Attorney-General of Cross River State; and Prince Godwin Okotie, Secretary.
The seven member committee is to resolve the escalating tensions between Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly.
“Concluding the assignment by writing and submitting a comprehensive report with recommendations within 14 days both to guide Rivers State and contribute to nation building in Nigeria,” he stated.
Igali also noted that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Siminalayi Fubara are both automatic members of PANDEF Board of Trustees by the virtue of their positions, saying they will be accorded that position once they are out of government.
He said all former Governors of South-South states are automatic members of BOT.
Inaugurating the committee, His Royal Majesty, King Alfred Papapraye Diete Spiff, the former Governor of Rivers State and the Amayanabo of Twon Brass in Bayelsa State said there is nothing that cannot be resolved.
Spiff who is the Co-chair of PANDEF Board of Trust urged both parties to sheathe the sword for the unity of the state and region.
As part of the terms of reference, the committee is charged to identify main actors in the crisis and to also reach out to other stakeholders.
The committee is also expected to open dialogue between Governor Fubara and members of Rivers State Assembly.
“ Fully identifying the main actors in the crisis between the Governor and the Speaker of the House of Assembly.
“ Reaching out to other critical players, especially the Minister of the FCT, other former Governors, elders and traditional rulers and top political leaders.
“Facilitating Dialogue especially by encouraging open communication between Governor Fubara and the State House of Assembly to address grievances and work towards a peaceful resolution.
“ Recommending steps to restoring reconciliation and Stability.
“ Finding ways to restore law and order in Rivers State, ensuring the welfare and safety of citizen.
“ Encouraging tolerance, compromise, and political balance among. stakeholders to prevent further escalation.
“ Ensuring that any resolution respects the democratic will of the people and adherence to constitutional norms.
“ Ensuring that sensitive information shared during the reconciliation process is kept confidential to foster trust and facilitate open dialogue.
“ Consulting Stakeholders*: Engaging with all stakeholders, leaders, and groups directly or indirectly involved or impacted by the crisis to gather perspectives to sustainable peace building consensus.”
