Rivers State Crisis: Communities Warn of Potential Guerrilla Warfare
Less than 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, oil and gas-producing communities in the Niger Delta have raised concerns that this decision could ignite guerrilla warfare in the region.
The alarm follows the recent explosion on the Trans-Niger oil pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, an incident believed to be linked to ex-militants disgruntled over pipeline surveillance contract exclusions.
Political Instability Could Escalate Economic Crisis
Speaking with Vanguard, Joseph Ambakaderimo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Community Development Committees (CDC) of Niger Delta Oil and Gas-Producing Areas, warned that the political turmoil in Rivers State could severely impact Nigeria’s economy if not handled with diplomacy.
He criticized the president’s decision, stating, “Declaring a state of emergency under these circumstances is premature and could provoke a larger crisis. If this spirals into guerrilla warfare, the economic damage will be enormous.”
Ambakaderimo further revealed that certain ex-militants, previously engaged in pipeline surveillance, feel neglected and may be resorting to sabotage to draw attention to their plight.
Urgent Need to Reassess Pipeline Surveillance Contracts
He emphasized that the federal government must immediately review the surveillance contracts to promote inclusivity and avoid further sabotage.
“With only two out of six NLNG Train operations currently functional, the country is already facing a gas shortage. If crude oil production is similarly affected, the economy will suffer drastic consequences,” he noted.
He recommended that the government engage the CDC to mediate between stakeholders and ensure equitable contract distribution.
Governor Fubara Urged to Seek Presidential Dialogue
Despite the emergency declaration, Ambakaderimo encouraged Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to seek diplomatic dialogue with President Tinubu through respected statesmen to facilitate a reversal of the decision.
He also condemned the 27 state lawmakers for ignoring a Supreme Court ruling while focusing on political maneuvering to impeach Governor Fubara, allegedly at the behest of political leader Nyesom Wike.
“Governor Fubara has attempted to uphold the court’s judgment, even at personal risk, while lawmakers prioritize political interests. They rejected the governor’s budget proposal and acted against judicial directives,” he asserted.
State of Emergency Threatens Oil Production Stability
Ambakaderimo reiterated that escalating political conflicts could reduce daily crude oil output, posing significant economic threats.
“A well-thought-out approach is needed. Reversing the emergency decision would demonstrate the administration’s commitment to national stability and economic growth,” he concluded.
Vanguard News on Rivers State Crisis
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