The Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed concern following the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by . In President Bola Tinubua nationwide address on Tuesday, the president announced the emergency in response to a growing political crisis in the state. He also suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.
To oversee the state’s affairs, President Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) as the new Administrator, ensuring stability and governance in the interest of Rivers citizens.
PANDEF, the leading socio-political body representing the South-South region, issued a statement through its National Spokesman, Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, describing the declaration as “alarming.” The group emphasized that the crisis in Rivers State could have been avoided, and they are currently assessing the situation to determine their official position.
The statement read, “PANDEF is seriously alarmed by the state of emergency declared in Rivers State due to a crisis that is ordinarily avoidable. We are studying the situation and will soon announce our position.”
As tensions rise, all eyes are now on PANDEF’s upcoming statement for clarity on their stance regarding the political developments in Rivers State.
