The Board and National Executive Committee of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political organization representing the South-South geopolitical zone, joins millions of Nigerians in welcoming the lifting of the state of emergency in Rivers State, effective midnight, Wednesday, September 17, 2025.

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 unwavering perseverance and faith in the divine will of Almighty God. We extend similar commendations to the Deputy Governor, Professor Ngozi Oduah, the Speaker, and members of the House of Assembly, who were equally affected by the suspension.

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. A moment in which the bitter pains of the past months will inspire all to rededicate themselves to true mutual forberance, new alignments and forward movement.

All hearts and hands must therefore be joined together to put the past behind and work towards the collective good of the state.

We look forward to the State’s return to normalcy and the resumption of its developmental trajectory under the leadership of Governor Fubara and his team. PANDEF reiterates its commitment to supporting the government and people of Rivers State in their pursuit of progress and development.

Signed

King Alfred Diette-Spiff
(Amanyanobo of Twon-Brass)
Co Chairman,
Board of Trustees.

Obong Victor Attah
Co-Chairman Board of Trustees, PANDEF

Ambassador Dr Godknows Boladei igali, OON
National Chairman, PANDEF

Engr Beks Dagogo-Jack OFR
National Secretary, PANDEF