Wike Blasts PANDEF, Calls It “The Worst Organization to Rely On”
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticized the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) over its position on the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, describing it as an unreliable organization driven by political and financial interests.
Speaking at a media chat on Wednesday in Abuja, Wike dismissed PANDEF’s recent visit to President Bola Tinubu, saying, “Yesterday, I heard that some people went to see Mr. President. PANDEF—it is the worst organization anybody can rely on.”
He accused some of its leaders of prioritizing personal gains over genuine leadership, stating, “If you have a father who is always interested in money, he can sell his child or his children. These leaders—look at the comments they have made.”
‘PANDEF Contradicts Itself’
Wike recalled that PANDEF initially opposed President Tinubu’s intervention in the Rivers crisis but later sought his help after legal battles did not go in its favor.
“Mr. President intervened in this matter. I’m not talking about the Vice President—Mr. President himself. The Vice President was there, the National Security Adviser was there. The National Security Adviser even signed for the implementation of peace. This same PANDEF came out and said, ‘Mr. President has no right.’ They took Mr. President to court,” he revealed.
‘Political Merchants in PANDEF’
The FCT Minister also singled out certain PANDEF leaders, including Chief Saraibe and former Governor Diette-Spiff, for what he described as political inconsistency.
“People like Chief Saraibe—one of the worst persons you can ever think of, one of the political merchants—I know them. Diette-Spiff, whom I respected, went to Government House. Look at the statement he made: ‘I’m an Ijaw man, you’re an Ijaw man, call us, we’ll be with you.’ An elder statesman would go and make such a statement?” Wike said.
He questioned why PANDEF was now urging President Tinubu to intervene after previously challenging his role in court.
“Now, the Supreme Court has given judgment. Now you’re going to tell the President to do what? The President should do what? That Supreme Court judgment should not be obeyed?” Wike asked.
Rivers Crisis Intensifies
With tensions in Rivers State still unresolved, Wike’s latest remarks add another layer to the political debate surrounding the state’s governance and the role of regional organizations like PANDEF. His comments are expected to further shape the discourse on leadership, loyalty, and political maneuvering in the Niger Delta.
