The suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has firmly refuted any involvement in the recent pipeline explosions that led President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency. He asserted that he had no role in the attacks and dismissed allegations of negligence in preventing militant threats. Tinubu’s Allegations Against Fubara President Tinubu had accused Fubara of failing to deter criminal elements from targeting oil installations in the state. Additionally, he criticized the Governor for not reconstructing the Hallowed Chambers of the State House of Assembly in Port Harcourt after its demolition. Fubara Responds to Accusations In a statement issued by his press secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara blamed misinformation for the President’s stance. He insisted that his administration had always prioritized security and economic stability, emphasizing that he had never encouraged or signaled any attacks on oil pipelines. According to Fubara, the recent unrest in the Niger Delta region was sparked by comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. During a media interview, Wike reportedly dismissed the Ijaw people as politically insignificant, insinuating that other ethnic groups, including the Ogonis and Ikwerres, were also capable of militant actions. This, Fubara argued, provoked widespread backlash from Niger Delta stakeholders, including the Ijaw National Congress (INC), its youth wing, and other key groups. Fubara’s Commitment to Security Fubara highlighted his consistent efforts in maintaining peace and protecting oil infrastructure. He recalled his contributions as a member of the Presidential Committee on the Protection of Oil Installations and reiterated his administration’s investment in security. The state government has enhanced the welfare and operational capacity of security forces by providing vehicles, gunboats, helicopters, and improved accommodations for personnel. His administration’s focus on security, he noted, has significantly boosted oil production and revenue generation since his tenure began on May 29, 2023. Assembly Complex Controversy Addressing concerns about the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Fubara clarified that the action was taken based on expert recommendations. He reminded the public that Wike himself had previously criticized the deteriorating condition of the complex and refused to allocate funds for its renovation during his tenure. Following the structural collapse on October 29, 2023, Fubara’s government initiated the construction of a modern legislative complex, which is now nearly 80% completed. Violence in Rivers State Fubara also pointed to violent incidents linked to Wike’s supporters, particularly during the October 5, 2024, local government elections. He alleged that FCT Minister’s loyalists attacked local government secretariats, yet his administration chose to maintain peace rather than retaliate. He urged security agencies to focus on the actual perpetrators of violence and ensure justice is served. The Governor reaffirmed his stance against any form of sabotage, emphasizing that he has consistently advocated for peace and stability in Rivers State. For further insights on the security situation in the Niger Delta, visit Nigerian Oil & Gas Industry Updates. By addressing security concerns, economic stability, and political tensions, Fubara aims to maintain peace in Rivers State. As the crisis unfolds, stakeholders continue to seek lasting solutions to the region’s challenges. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
In a daring rescue mission, operatives of Operation Puff Adder, under the command of CSP Chris Nwaogbo, successfully freed two kidnapped employees of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) who were held hostage for three days. The victims were abducted last Friday while traveling by river en route to Ayakoro, a community in Ogbia Local Government Area, Bayelsa State—the hometown of NDDC’s Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku. Rescued NDDC Staff Identified Among those rescued were Akari Loveday, Special Adviser on Domestic Affairs to the NDDC Managing Director, and Emmanuel Nathan Ogbuku. Their release was secured after an intense security operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies and local vigilante groups. Joint Security Effort Led to Successful Rescue A senior police source disclosed that the operation was a coordinated effort by the tactical team of Operation Puff Adder, the drone surveillance unit of the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, a private security firm—Ability Security Services, and personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Soroh, who deployed gunboats to secure the river passages. The police and the kidnappers engaged in a high-stakes chase along the Ayakoro creeks and through the dense Onuebum-Eboi and Otuogidi forests. The criminals eventually abandoned the captives at the Ayama burial ground after an intense gun battle. Local Vigilante Groups Aided the Rescue The success of the operation was also attributed to local intelligence provided by the youth and vigilante groups from Ewoi and Otuogidi communities. The Paramount Ruler of Ewoi played a pivotal role in rallying the local security groups to support the police in tracking down the kidnappers and securing the release of the hostages. Jubilation in Ayakoro Community Residents of Ayakoro erupted in celebration when the police team, led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo, returned with the freed NDDC employees. Their safe return marked the end of a tense three-day ordeal that gripped the community with fear and uncertainty. The incident underscores the persistent security challenges in the Niger Delta region, where kidnappings for ransom have become prevalent. Authorities continue to urge local communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security forces. For more insights on security measures in Nigeria, visit Nigeria Security Tracker. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Kindly Share:
The Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, has achieved a significant milestone in the fight against oil theft in the Niger Delta region. Between December 23 and 29, 2024, troops of the 6 Division dismantled 20 illegal crude oil refining sites, arrested eight suspected oil thieves, and recovered over 90,000 litres of stolen petroleum products. Key Operations and Discoveries 1. Buguma General Area (Asari-Toru LGA): 2. Krakrama Community (Degema LGA): 3. Gbede, Omoku: 4. Odagwa-Imo Riverside (Etche LGA): 5. Imo River Fringes: 6. Biseni Forest, Bayelsa State (Yenagoa LGA): 7. Akwa Ibom State: 8. Delta State: Military’s Commitment to Regional Security The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 6 Division, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, praised the troops for their vigilance and dedication. He urged them to sustain these efforts to ensure a secure environment for oil exploration and economic activities in the Niger Delta. Additionally, he called on the public to provide actionable intelligence to support the fight against economic sabotage. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
