A militant group known as the Niger Delta Development Force (NDDF) has issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu.
They threaten to blow up oil installations in the Niger Delta region.
The group’s grievances center around allegations of interference by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
They accuse Wike of undermining the governance of Rivers State Governor, Fubara.
In a statement released by NDDF’s Global Spokesman, Justin Alabraba, the group expressed their anger at Wike’s actions.
The NDDF claims Wike is trying to manipulate a judge to stop local government allocations in Rivers State.
Alabraba stated, “If President Bola Tinubu allows Wike to ground governance at the local governments in Rivers State, we will also ground governance at all levels.”
This statement reflects the growing tension in the region, which has seen various militant groups making similar threats in the past.
The NDDF’s warning follows a recent ruling by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.
The court dismissed a request from the Rivers State Government that sought to delay proceedings in a suit aimed at halting funding to all local government areas in the state.
The judge described the Rivers State Government’s request as “frivolous, vexatious, unwarranted, and mischievous.”
This ruling has angered the NDDF, prompting them to take a hardline stance.
The group stated they would take immediate action if any judge in Abuja made a decision that would financially cripple local governments in Rivers State.
“We will waste no time. It would be a swift response,” Alabraba said.
The NDDF believes that local governments should have the necessary resources to serve the people effectively.
They expressed frustration at the perceived federal government interference in local governance.
The group’s statement reveals a deep-seated anger against Wike’s continued influence in Rivers State politics.
They argue that for months, Wike has been using his position to insult and intimidate Governor Fubara.
This situation has created a tense political environment in Rivers State.
Residents are increasingly concerned about the potential for violence and instability.
Alabraba’s statement highlighted the NDDF’s commitment to protecting their state from perceived threats.
They declared, “We cannot be suffering while other parts of Nigeria are enjoying.”
This sentiment resonates with many in the Niger Delta, who feel marginalized and neglected by the federal government.
The NDDF warned that any further actions against Fubara by Wike would not be tolerated.
They made it clear that they would respond with destructive measures against oil installations in the region.
“This is not a threat. This is a promise,” Alabraba asserted, emphasizing their resolve.
The NDDF has positioned itself as a guardian of the Niger Delta’s interests, declaring that they will not allow Wike or anyone else to undermine their governance.
Political analysts believe that the NDDF’s threats highlight the fragile security situation in the Niger Delta.
Over the years, various militant groups have used threats of violence to achieve political objectives.
The history of militancy in the Niger Delta is rooted in grievances over resource control and environmental degradation.
Many locals feel that the oil wealth generated from their land has not benefited them.
Wike’s actions and influence as a federal minister have drawn criticism from various quarters, including civil society organizations and political analysts.
Many believe his interference in Rivers State politics is counterproductive and could lead to unrest.
Local leaders are calling for a resolution to the ongoing tensions between Wike and Governor Fubara.
Some citizens have expressed concerns about the potential for violence if the situation escalates further.
