The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body representing the South-South, has welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s decision to lift the six-month state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as “the dawn of a glorious day.”
In a statement jointly signed on Thursday by its leaders, Co-Chairman, Board of Trustees, King Alfred Diette-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass; Co-Chairman and former Akwa Ibom Governor, Obong Victor Attah; National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali; and National Secretary, Engr. Beks Dagogo-Jack, the forum called on political leaders and citizens of Rivers to put the past behind them and focus on rebuilding the state.
“The Board and National Executive Committee of PANDEF join millions of Nigerians in welcoming the lifting of the state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight, Wednesday, September 17, 2025,” the statement read.
“While PANDEF had expressed strong reservations regarding the erstwhile emergency rule, we commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for taking this bold step to rectify the anomaly. We welcome Governor Siminalayi Fubara back to his elected office and salute his perseverance and faith in the divine will of Almighty God.
“We say to the political leaders and people of Rivers State, who were the true victims of the dark days, that light has returned to the state and a new glorious dawn has come.”
Naija News reports that President Tinubu had on Wednesday announced the end of the emergency rule imposed on Rivers since March 18, 2025, following months of political crisis that paralysed governance in the oil-rich state.
The President directed the reinstatement of Governor Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, with effect from Thursday, September 18.
In the statement released on Thursday, PANDEF urged all stakeholders in Rivers to embrace peace, tolerance, and cooperation, stressing that the opportunity must not be wasted.
“This moment should inspire all to rededicate themselves to mutual forbearance, new alignments, and forward movement,” the forum declared.
“All hearts and hands must therefore be joined together to put the past behind and work towards the collective good of the state. PANDEF reiterates its commitment to supporting the government and people of Rivers State in their pursuit of peace, progress, and development.”
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