Tensions are escalating in the Niger Delta as a militant faction, the Niger Delta Rescue Movement, threatens to attack oil facilities in Rivers State. The group claims the move is a response to the withholding of funds meant for the state and has issued an evacuation notice to non-indigenes, citing imminent violence.
A widely shared video on social media features heavily armed militants in a dense forest, chanting war songs. The group blames the political standoff on the actions of 27 lawmakers, allegedly orchestrated by Martin Amaewhile, with the aim of undermining Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration. The militants argue that their intervention is necessary to prevent a state of emergency or an impeachment attempt.
Speaking on behalf of the movement, one of the armed men called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and rein in Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and his allies, accusing them of instigating the crisis to destabilize the state.
Appeal for Presidential Intervention
Former Minister of Transportation, Dr. Abiye Sekibo, has urged President Tinubu to throw his support behind Governor Fubara. He emphasized that the Ijaw people have waited 24 years to have one of their own lead Rivers State, making this a crucial moment in the region’s political history. At the commissioning of the renovated Borokiri Fire Service Station in Port Harcourt, Sekibo praised Fubara’s leadership, stressing that he has demonstrated a strong commitment to governance and national unity.
Political Reinstatements and Power Struggles
Meanwhile, former Andoni Local Council chairman Imie Benson Alpheaus has reclaimed his position following a ruling by the Appeal Court on February 28. The decision overturned a previous high court judgment that had removed him from office.
After a prolonged legal battle spanning a decade, Alpheaus expressed gratitude to the judiciary for rectifying the record. He laid out his plans for boosting economic growth in Andoni through commerce, industry, and tourism. He assured residents that his administration would focus on restoring democratic governance, maintaining security, and improving livelihoods.
In one of his first official actions, Alpheaus announced the dissolution of all existing local government appointees and committees formed by previous administrations, signaling a major shift in leadership and governance priorities.
Final Thoughts
The unfolding crisis in Rivers State underscores the volatile nature of the Niger Delta’s political and security environment. With militant threats, governance battles, and shifting power dynamics, the region stands at a crossroads. The federal government’s response in the coming weeks will be instrumental in determining whether stability can be restored or if tensions will further escalate, threatening Nigeria’s vital oil economy.
