Rivers Crisis: Niger Delta Militants Regroup,Plan Coordinated Attacks

…As Security forces on high alert amid rising tensions

A secret report has revealed that militant leaders in the Niger Delta have secretly reconvened in an undisclosed creek community to plan and coordinate attacks on oil facilities, raising fresh concerns over security in the region.

The meeting occurred just days after President Tinubu suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and declared a state of emergency in the state.

Although details of the gathering remain scarce, a reliable source indicated to Vanguard that the militant leaders are seeking full participation from various groups in the Niger Delta and are consulting widely with other leaders.

Commander Bibi Oduku, the commandant general of the Riverine Security (Coast-Guard of the Federation), confirmed the heightened security threat in the Niger Delta, warning that it could severely impact Nigeria’s economy.

He advised President Tinubu to reconsider the suspension of Governor Fubara, citing the increasing risks posed by militant activities.

Oduku stated, “I urge President Bola Tinubu to carefully consider the suspension of the Rivers State governor because of the heightened tensions and threats in the Niger Delta. These threats pose a significant risk to the nation’s economy. Militant groups are planning to attack federal government properties across Niger Delta states, while miscreants may exploit the situation to engage in criminal activities. This could lead to loss of life among innocent citizens and military personnel deployed for peacekeeping.”

Despite the escalating threats, Oduku reassured the public that riverine security officers are on high alert and will collaborate with the Nigerian military and other security agencies to apprehend those responsible for attacks on federal government properties.

Captains Eric Foutoru and ThankGod Oprom, who oversee the Rivers and Delta States’ waterways, respectively, pledged their support to the military in maintaining peace in the region.

Oduku also referenced a warning from former presidential amnesty head Brigadier General Paul T. Boroh (retd.), who urged Niger Delta youths to avoid allowing anger to drive them toward violence.

Oduku condemned the recent destruction of oil pipelines in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states and promised that security forces would bring those responsible to justice.

He urged the people of Rivers State and the Niger Delta to embrace peace and allow the law to take its course.