A militant group, the Niger Delta Rescue Movement (NDRM), has issued a threat to attack oil installations in the Niger Delta region over the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, particularly the seizure of the state’s federal allocation.
The group also warned non-indigenes residing in the state to leave for their safety, claiming that hostilities are about to begin.
A viral social media video, which surfaced yesterday, showed eight armed militants in an undisclosed forest, wielding AK-47s and other rifles, chanting war songs and expressing their anger over the actions of certain lawmakers.
Militants Accuse Lawmakers of Causing Crisis
One of the militants, speaking on behalf of the group, condemned the Martin Amaewhule-led 27 lawmakers, accusing them of attempting to destabilize Rivers State and create chaos that could lead to a state of emergency or the governor’s impeachment.
“We, members of the Niger Delta Rescue Movement, wish to express our deep concern regarding the recent developments threatening the smooth governance of our beloved state under Governor Siminalayi Fubara,” the speaker said.
According to them, the lawmakers’ 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Fubara to present the 2025 budget was a deliberate move to create unrest.
The militants called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and stop what they described as an orchestrated attempt by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and his associates to plunge Rivers State into crisis.
Ex-Minister Abiye Sekibo Pleads for Fubara’s Support
Meanwhile, elder statesman and former Minister of Transportation, Dr. Abiye Sekibo, has urged President Tinubu to support Governor Fubara, emphasizing that this is a historic moment for the Ijaw nation, which is producing a governor for the first time in 24 years.
Speaking at the commissioning of the remodeled Borokiri Fire Service Station and new firefighting vehicles in Port Harcourt, Sekibo praised Fubara’s leadership, stating that he has prioritized the interests of the people and promoted national unity.
He further noted that the Rivers people are standing firmly with the President, urging Tinubu to prevent any attempts to destabilize the state.
Legal Victory for Andoni Local Council Chairman
In a separate development, Imie Benson Alpheaus, one of the elected local government chairmen from 2015 under the administration of Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has officially resumed office as the chairman of Andoni Local Government Council.
His reinstatement follows a February 28, 2025, Appeal Court judgment, which overturned a previous High Court ruling that removed him from office.
Alpheaus Outlines His Vision for Andoni
After a decade-long legal battle, Alpheaus expressed his gratitude to the judiciary, particularly the Court of Appeal, for restoring his mandate.
In his reinstatement address on March 3, 2025, he outlined his developmental plans, focusing on:
•Commerce
•Industry
•Investment
•Tourism
His goal is to enhance peace, security, and economic growth in Andoni.
Alpheaus also dissolved all local council appointments and committees made by past administrations, signaling a fresh start.
“We shall immediately swing into action with new policies and programs aimed at human and capital development, ensuring the progress of our people,” he declared.
