Niger Delta Militant Group Threatens Shutdown of Oil Installations Over Alleged Interference by Minister Wike
By Wisdom Tide
October 27, 2024
A newly emerged militant group from the Niger Delta, known as the Niger Delta Development Force (NDDF), has issued a stern warning that it may disrupt oil operations in the region. The group claims this drastic measure will occur if President Bola Tinubu fails to prevent the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, from allegedly interfering in the administration of Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara.
Allegations Against Minister Wike
The NDDF expressed particular concern over what it describes as a plot by Wike to influence legal proceedings in his favor. According to the group, Wike intends to use a cooperative judge to halt local government allocations in Rivers State. The NDDF alleges that this would significantly impact local governance and hinder the state’s ability to fund essential services at the grassroots level.
Court Proceedings and Controversy
The issue intensified after a recent decision by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja. Justice Abdulmalik dismissed a motion by the Rivers State Government seeking to pause the distribution of funds to local governments within the state. The court labeled the Rivers State Government’s motion, argued by counsel Gordy Uche, as “frivolous, vexatious, unwarranted, and mischievous.”
Militant Group’s Ultimatum to the Federal Government
In a statement issued by NDDF spokesperson Justin Alabraba, the group warned that it is prepared to take immediate action against the oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta. Alabraba stated that any judicial ruling from Abuja that financially incapacitates local governments in Rivers State will be met with a swift response.
“We will not hesitate,” Alabraba asserted. “If any court order undermines the financial stability of local governments in Rivers State, we will shut down oil installations. If President Tinubu allows Wike to cripple local governance in Rivers, we will respond by disrupting governance at all levels. We refuse to suffer while other parts of Nigeria benefit. Wike should cease his interference with Governor Fubara’s administration.”
Accusations of Federal Interference and Intimidation
The NDDF contends that Wike has repeatedly used his federal position to undermine Governor Fubara's administration. The group claims that for several months, Wike has relied on his influence within the federal government to intimidate and weaken Governor Fubara’s authority, which they find unacceptable.
“Wike’s continuous interference in Rivers State governance is intolerable,” Alabraba said. “If Wike initiates further actions against Governor Fubara, we will respond by targeting oil installations. We are no longer willing to stand by as Wike disrespects our state. Rivers State is not Wike’s property, and his tenure cannot extend to the detriment of his successor.”
Warning of Potential Escalation
The NDDF emphasized that it is resolute in its decision, should the courts rule against the Rivers State Government. The group indicated that any unfavorable judgment will lead to a sustained attack on oil installations in the Niger Delta, stating, “This is not merely a threat; it is a promise. Enough is enough. Neither Wike nor Tinubu can continue to exploit the Niger Delta at our expense.”
The group’s threat has heightened concerns over potential disruptions to Nigeria’s oil production, a crucial source of national revenue. The situation now hinges on President Tinubu’s intervention to address these grievances and restore stability in Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region.
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