In a historic moment for Rivers State, the cloud of uncertainty that loomed over its political landscape has lifted with the termination of the state of emergency at midnight on Wednesday, September 17, 2025.
The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the leading socio-political organization representing the South-South geopolitical zone, has greeted this development with jubilation, heralding it as the “dawn of a glorious day” for the state and its resilient people.
The decision paves the way for the restoration of democratic governance and renewed hope for progress in one of Nigeria’s most vibrant states.
PANDEF, in a heartfelt press statement, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive action in ending the emergency rule, which had disrupted the state’s political and developmental trajectory.
“We commend His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for taking this bold step to rectify the anomaly,” the statement declared, acknowledging the President’s commitment to restoring normalcy.
The organization had previously voiced strong concerns about the emergency rule, making its reversal a significant victory for democratic principles and the will of the people.
The statement, signed by prominent leaders including King Alfred Diette-Spiff (Amanyanobo of Twon-Brass), Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Obong Victor Attah, Co-Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, OON, National Chairman; and Engr. Beks Dagogo-Jack, OFR, National Secretary, celebrated the return of Governor Siminalayi Fubara to his elected office. Alongside him, Deputy Governor Professor Ngozi Oduah, the Speaker, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who were also affected by the suspension, resume their roles.
PANDEF lauded Governor Fubara’s steadfastness, noting his “unwavering perseverance and faith in the divine will of Almighty God” during the challenging period of emergency rule.
The lifting of the emergency rule marks a turning point for Rivers State, which PANDEF described as emerging from “the dark days” of political turmoil.
The organization addressed the people and political leaders of the state directly, offering a message of hope and unity: “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.”
This poignant statement reflects the collective relief and optimism sweeping through the state as it reclaims its path to stability.
PANDEF called for a unified effort to move beyond the “bitter pains of the past months,” urging all stakeholders to embrace “true mutual forbearance, new alignments, and forward movement.”
The organization emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, “All hearts and hands must therefore be joined together to put the past behind and work towards the collective good of the state.”
This call to action underscores the need for reconciliation and collaboration to heal the divisions caused by the emergency rule and to set Rivers State on a course for progress.
Looking ahead, PANDEF expressed confidence in Governor Fubara’s leadership to steer Rivers State back to its developmental trajectory.
“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,” the statement affirmed.
The organization highlighted its unwavering commitment to supporting the government and people of Rivers State in their pursuit of sustainable development and prosperity.
