By Muhammad Mamman
Leaders of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) have met separately with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, amid escalating political tensions and renewed impeachment threats in the state.
The high-level engagements come as divisions within Rivers State’s political establishment deepen, raising concerns about governance stability in one of Nigeria’s most strategic oil-producing regions.
PANDEF, the apex socio-political body representing the interests of the Niger Delta, said the meetings were part of efforts to prevent a full-blown political crisis and encourage dialogue between rival factions.
Sources familiar with the discussions said the delegation sought to impress on both leaders the need to prioritise peace, unity and the collective interests of Rivers State and the wider Niger Delta.
The political rift, widely seen as a fallout of strained relations between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Wike, has fuelled speculation over a possible impeachment move against the governor by the state legislature.
While neither Wike nor Fubara publicly commented on the content of the meetings, PANDEF has repeatedly warned that prolonged instability in Rivers State could have far-reaching implications for development, security and oil production in the region.
The forum has urged all parties to exercise restraint and resolve their differences through dialogue, cautioning that political brinkmanship could undermine democratic institutions and public confidence.
Rivers State has in recent months remained at the centre of national attention as power struggles continue to test political alliances and governance in the oil-rich state.
