The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has expressed deep concern over the recent ruling by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which has halted the disbursement of Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds to Rivers State. The group warns that this decision could have severe consequences for the state’s citizens, economic stability, and ongoing peace efforts in the Niger Delta region.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, PANDEF emphasized that Rivers State—one of the nation’s key contributors to the oil and gas sector—should not suffer fiscal strangulation due to a political dispute that is “eminently resolvable.” The forum argued that withholding funds essential for economic growth, social welfare, and infrastructure development would disproportionately impact the people of Rivers State.
While reaffirming its commitment to peace, reconciliation, and conflict resolution, PANDEF called on the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision. The group stressed that fairness, equity, and national unity must guide judicial and political decisions, particularly those affecting the South-South region, which remains crucial to Nigeria’s economic stability.
The ruling, according to PANDEF, could derail ongoing peace-building efforts, including the Obong Victor Attah-led Peace and Reconciliation Committee, which has made significant progress in fostering stability in Rivers State. The forum urged the Federal Government, political actors, and the judiciary to ensure that governance and economic development take precedence over political rivalries.
Drawing historical parallels, PANDEF likened the situation to the withholding of local government funds from Lagos State during the tenure of former Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu by then-President Olusegun Obasanjo. That action, widely condemned both locally and internationally, was seen as a politically motivated move that set a dangerous precedent. The group warned that a similar scenario in Rivers State could have even more dire consequences for peace and security in the Niger Delta.
PANDEF reaffirmed its unwavering stance on justice, dialogue, and sustainable development, urging all stakeholders to work toward a fair resolution that does not victimize the people of Rivers State.
