PANDEF Accuses Tinubu of “Stabbing Niger Delta in the Back” with Rivers State Emergency Declaration
By Abdulhamid Sani
Abuja, Nigeria March 20, 2025 –
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has issued a scathing critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State, accusing him of betraying the Niger Delta region. This statement follows an emergency meeting of PANDEF’s Board of Trustees and expanded National Executive Committee held in Abuja on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
The organization’s condemnation stems from the suspension of the democratically elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and House of Assembly of Rivers State, which occurred on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. PANDEF views this action as a direct affront to democratic principles and a severe blow to the Niger Delta’s interests.
Key Points of PANDEF’s Communiqué:
Timing of the Declaration: PANDEF highlights the proximity of the State of Emergency declaration to a recent high-level South-South delegation meeting with President Tinubu. During this meeting, the President had commended PANDEF’s peace efforts and encouraged further reconciliation in the region.
Allegations of Betrayal: PANDEF argues that President Tinubu’s actions contradict his previous assurances and undermine the peace-building initiatives in the Niger Delta.
Criticism of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike: PANDEF expresses dismay over the FCT Minister’s derogatory remarks against Niger Delta leaders, which they claim went unchecked by the President. They see the Minister as a primary driver of the Rivers State crisis.
Budget Presentation Impasse: PANDEF points to the Governor’s willingness to present the 2025 budget, as directed by the Supreme Court and President, and the subsequent indefinite adjournment of the House of Assembly. They allege that the House began impeachment proceedings in bad faith.
Double Standards Alleged: PANDEF questions the rationale behind the State of Emergency declaration in Rivers State, citing pipeline explosions as a pretext. They argue that similar security challenges in other regions, particularly in the North, have not resulted in such drastic measures.
Legal Processes Undermined: PANDEF criticizes the timing of the declaration, given pending court cases concerning the status of 27 House of Assembly members.
Call to Action: PANDEF urges the National Assembly to reject the State of Emergency declaration and stand in defense of democratic governance. They vow to continue advocating for peace in the South-South region and to explore all constitutional remedies.
PANDEF’s Demands:
The National Assembly to reject the State of Emergency.
The Federal Government to engage in genuine dialogue.
PANDEF will continue to monitor the situation, and to explore all legal options.
This statement from PANDEF signifies a major escalation in the political tensions surrounding Rivers State and raises serious questions about the Federal Government’s handling of the crisis.
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