By Akpos Oghenetega,
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) frowned at the recent ruling by the Supreme Court, which has halted the disbursement of Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds to Rivers State. Describing the decision as unjust and detrimental to the economic and social stability of the state, the Pan Niger Delta group has called for an urgent review of the ruling in the interest of national unity and development.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Chief Dr. Obiuwevbi Ominimini, PANDEF expressed deep concern over the severe hardship the decision would impose on the people of Rivers State, who rely on these funds for essential services, infrastructural development, and economic growth.
"Undoubtedly, the primary casualties of this judicial restraint will be the innocent citizens of Rivers State, for whom these funds serve as a lifeline for economic, social growth, and infrastructural development," the statement read. "As a pivotal contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector—the backbone of the nation’s economy—Rivers State should not be subjected to fiscal strangulation owing to a political discord that remains eminently resolvable."
PANDEF emphasized that withholding statutory allocations from the state was both unjust and counterproductive, warning that such an action could destabilize the peace and economic progress of the Niger Delta region. The group reminded the federal government and the judiciary that Rivers State has remained a major source of national revenue and should not be punished for political reasons.
"This verdict constitutes a grave impediment to the painstaking peace-building initiatives spearheaded by PANDEF, particularly through the Obong Victor Attah-led Peace and Reconciliation Committee," the group noted. "The committee, having already commenced its reconciliatory engagements, has begun to record commendable strides in fostering harmony and stability within the state."
The statement further urged the Supreme Court to reconsider its ruling, citing the long-term consequences such a decision could have on national stability. PANDEF warned that similar actions had led to tensions in the past, referencing the withdrawal of local government funds from Lagos State by former President Olusegun Obasanjo during the administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Lagos State Governor.
"It was widely condemned by Nigerians and the international community," PANDEF stated. "One, therefore, wonders how such a repetition would emerge again, even in a higher magnitude, in this 21st century with potentially grave implications for peace and security in the entire Niger Delta."
The group reaffirmed its commitment to peace, justice, and sustainable development, calling on the Federal Government, political stakeholders, and the judiciary to ensure that Rivers State is not made a victim of political conflicts.
"The sanctity of governance demands that economic imperatives supersede political rivalries for the greater good of the nation," PANDEF declared. "We call upon all relevant stakeholders to act swiftly in restoring normalcy and preventing unnecessary hardship on the people of Rivers State."
PANDEF’s statement underscores growing concerns that political maneuvering could once again undermine economic stability in the Niger Delta, a region that has long fought for equitable treatment in resource allocation and governance.
