MEND planning to eliminate me at all cost - Goodluck Jonathan

MEND planning to eliminate me at all cost - Goodluck Jonathan

South Unknown   08:58

Nigeria’ Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan raises alarm concerning some threats to his life by some enemies under the aegis of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, as they perfect their plot to assassinate him.

Recently, a splinter group from the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), which goes by the name Reforemed Niger Delta Avengers accused the former President as the grand patron of the NDA with the inclusion of his name in the list of alleged sponsors prepared by them.

An online medium, SaharaReporters, recounted that according to the statement made by its spokesperson, Cynthia Whyte, the RNDA also listed the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and the Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson, as supporters of the NDA.

Others mentioned in the list were Chief Edwin Clark, a former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Godswill Akpabio; ex-militant leader, Government Ekpemupolo (alias Tompolo); the founder, African Independent Television, Raymond Dokpesi; Kingsley Kuku; Kimi Angozi, and Patrick Akpobolokemi.

According to SaharaReporters, the group further claimed that the NDA sympathisers are Daniel Alabrah; Tony Uranta, Daniel; Ms. Annkio Briggs, and a former spokesman for the Peoples Democratic Party, Olisa Metuh.

The Reformed Niger Delta Avengers also named Oyege Nimi Brown, VIP Timothy, Joshua Macaiver, Paul Bebenimibo, among others, as the main operatives of the NDA.

It also claimed that the President of the Ijaw Youth Council, Udengs Eradiri, aka Brig. Gen. Murdoch Agbinibo, served as the NDA’s chief spokesman.

Nevertheless in a swift reaction, Jonathan, in a statement on Sunday via his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, said the purported list by the splinter group was politically motivated, adding that it was part of assassination attempt to his life.

Here are the excerpts of the press statement: “Since it is not in our place to speak for all those named in the obvious fabrication, we are only intervening to the extent that its hidden intent poses a violent threat to the life of former President Goodluck Jonathan, a committed patriot.

“We are seized by the feeling of déjà vu occasioned by the resurrection of one dim character masquerading as Cynthia Whyte, who had in the past served as the spokesperson for a notorious group that had all along shown its hand to be going after the life of former President Jonathan.”

The former President recollected an assassination attempt made by the same group against him in 2007, after he emerged as the running mate of the late President Umar Yar’Adua. He further narrated how this same group of boys bombed his compound in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, in one of the night he was billed to attend to a very important matter back home.

While speaking, he said, “Do we need to remind anybody that the so-called Cynthia Whyte is the self-declared spokesperson for the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta, a violent and murderous underground group led by one Henry Okah, which has not hidden its intention to destroy the former President?”

He also gave an instance of the bombing that took place on October 1, 2010 at the Eagle Square, Abuja, which portrays how violent they are.

He stated, “We have no doubt in our mind that MEND, as a group contracted to go after Jonathan with the mind of assassinating him, has yet to abandon this criminal and ignominious craving. It is in this light that we view the purported statement issued by Cynthia Whyte as not only a sadistic continuation of this sick desire, but also a futile attempt to instigate the Federal Government to needlessly go after the former President.

“Those who have been following the unsavoury developments in some parts of the country since the last general election would have noticed that MEND, its paymasters and other unscrupulous elements in the South-South region have been striving fruitlessly to exploit the ensuing confusion by surreptitiously working for the fulfilment of its yet-to-be declared political agenda.

“We are not under any illusion that more accusations and allegations of this nature would not be hurled Jonathan’s way in the future. But we are very positive that he can never be fazed by such negative energy.”

Similarly, Edwin Clark, also spoke through his lawyer, Mr. Dotun Sowemimo, wondering why he would be mentioned as one of the sponsors of such a terrible crime against the nation.

He said, “The allegation is an attempt to undermine the efforts of the Niger Delta leaders to bring true, lasting peace to the region.

“Clark and other leaders in the region believe in the unity of Nigeria. The list is a cheap lie, which is meant to distract the peace moves by the elders and leaders in the Niger Delta.”

On his part, Wike, who spoke through his Special Assistant on Electronic Media, Mr. Simeon Nwakaudu, said the list should be ignored by the members of the public.

Dokpesi, also distanced himself from the Niger Delta Avengers.

Dokpesi in an interview with The PUNCH on Sunday in Abuja, said he remained committed to strengthening the unity and stability of Nigeria.

He said, “I don’t know who is giving that report; I have never met any member of the NDA in my life, I have no association with them and I don’t know who they are. I have been committed to strengthening the unity and stability of the country.”

Also denying the allegation, Metuh said he had nothing to do with the NDA.

He said, “Ordinarily, I would not have responded to this, but on this occasion, I have chosen to respond, as this particularly borders on matters affecting national security.

“This is a wicked, cruel and devilish plot to link me with such activities, especially as the claim is outright false.’’

A former spokesman for the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, also denied being a sympathiser of the NDA.

Alabrah said in a statement on Sunday that the report was a product of mischief designed to distract the Federal Government from decisively addressing the resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta.

The Senate Minority Leader, Senator Godswill Akpabio, denied being a sponsor of the Niger Delta Avengers or any other militant group.

In a statement on Sunday by his Special Assistant on Media, Mr. Anietie Ekong, the former Governor of Akwa Ibom State described the allegation as “baseless, reckless and senseless.”

The statement read in part, “Senator Akpabio has no link with the Niger Delta Avengers or any other militant group for that matter.’’

Also, a former Adviser to President Jonathan, on Niger Delta, Mr. Kingsley Kuku, denied reports linking him with the Avengers.

From the foregoing, one may say that there is something dodgy about all these allegations due to the manner is was released by the supposed group, giving some consideration to their antecedents. However, time shall tell.

Niger Delta Avengers, a divided house

Niger Delta Avengers, a divided house

South Unknown   17:14

Trouble brews as the supposed disintegrated group of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) now known as Reformed Niger Delta Avengers (RNDA) attempts to rubbish the ideology of the group when it made public some names numbering about 22, which it claimed were the supporters of the militant group.

When contacted, an anonymous source, who is also an Ijaw leader decried that: “It is unfortunate that they have penetrated our boys with money and they are now using them to fight themselves. This is bad for the struggle.”

However, the self-acclaimed Brig. General Mudoch Agbinibo, who is spokesman of NDA debunked any rumour that the group has been fragmented, and went further to accuse a senior government official, ex-governor and former militant leaders in the region under the auspices of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, to announce the purported split.

“It is quite unfortunate that Cynthia Whyte and Jomo Gbomo of defunct Joint Revolutionary Council and MEND respectively are the spokesperson of the Nigerian intelligentsia community because of some political interest and a government that have abdicated powers to clansmen and tribal lords.

”The fact checks about Cynthia Whyte and his sponsors should be laid bare before the public now that the Nigerian security and intelligent community has turned the Niger Delta genuine struggle to a tool of political patronage and money making machine for miscreants and conflict merchants,” NDA said.

Also, the National president of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Mr. Udengs Eradiri, reacted by debunking the accusation made against him by the alleged splinter group of the NDA, who said he was among the sponsors of their activities, saying that: “I have no business whatsoever with the Niger Delta Avengers. I am the President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), the largest youth organization in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria and not Spokesman of the Niger Delta Avengers.”

According to him ”My attention has been drawn to a statement purportedly issued by a splinter group of the Niger Delta Avengers in which several Niger Deltans were mentioned as sponsors and operatives of the Niger Delta Avengers, including my humble self as the spokesman of the Niger Delta Avengers, who go by the name Brig. Gen. Mudoch Aginibo.

“Since the splinter group of the Niger Delta Avengers said they have broken away and repented from their old ways, I call on them to come out in open and identify themselves openly, instead of still using pseudo names such as Cynthia Whyte to issue statements.

“Any discerning mind would know that the said statement purportedly naming sponsors of Avengers was issued by the promoters of the Aaron 2 MEND negotiation with the federal government. Their grouse against me is because I said in my recent interviews that MEND Aaron 11 team does not have the mandate of the Ijaw and other Niger Delta people to negotiate with the federal government. They are desperate because of the lack of credibility in what they are doing,” he said.

Eradiri buttressed: “I wish to state that no amount of desperation and blackmail would stop me from stating the position of the Ijaw people as far issues affecting the Niger Delta region are concerned. I was elected to promote and protect the interest of the Ijaw and Niger Delta people and not the selfish and personal interest of a few.”

“I also want to put on record the consistent threat to my life by the promoters of the Aaron 2 MEND negotiation with the federal government. They have been consistently saying that they would deal with me.

He further added that “The security agencies, especially the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS) already know them since they claimed to be negotiating with the government and should take note and appropriate actions on this threat.”

In the meantime, spokesman of IYC, Mr. Eric Omare, in a statement, Sunday, called on security agents to stop the indiscriminate arrest of Ijaw and Niger Delta youths under the guise of fighting renewed militancy in the Niger Delta region.

“In recent times, there have been indiscriminate arrests of Ijaw and other Niger Delta youths by security agents without charging any of them to court. So far, security agents have arrested Ijaw youths such as Mr. Simeon Bebenimino, Bomboy Oluba, Aboy Muturu, the Oporoza 10 and several others. The latest of the victims of this indiscriminate arrest is Comrade Daniel Ezekiel, an Ijaw youth from Egebma Clan in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta.

“Daniel Ezekiel, who is the spokesperson of a Niger Delta- based civil society organization, the Ijaw Peoples’ Development Initiative (IPDI) was arrested/abducted on Thursday, August 4, 2016 while on his way from Sapele to Warri in Delta State.

“Up to the time of issuing this statement, the whereabouts of Mr. Daniel Ezekiel are unknown. In the days leading to the arrest/abduction of Mr. Ezekiel, he complained of threats to his life by some persons, who claimed to be working for the federal government and security agencies in the Niger Delta.”

His statement reads further that: “Daniel Ezekiel is a passionate believer in the Niger Delta cause and like several young Nigerians has actively used the social media in articulating the Niger Delta cause. The IYC wonders when it has become an offence to express one’s support for a cause through the social media.”

Omare also included that: “After all, President Buhari is one of the greatest beneficiaries of the social media during the last presidential election; so why the clampdown on those who expresses dissent to his administration through the same medium?

He declared that: “The IYC wishes to strongly advise the federal government and agents of the federal government, including party chieftains not to use the renewed militancy in the Niger Delta as a political tool to arrest and silence opposing voices in the Niger Delta region.”

“There are indications that more opposing voices in the Niger Delta may be arrested in the days ahead on the instigation of some politicians to settle political scores. We call on President Buhari to call the security agencies to order, as indiscriminate arrest of Niger Deltans, especially those expressing dissent to the administration’s approach to issue affecting the region would not do him any good.

“We reiterate our call for those under arrest to be charged to a court of competent jurisdiction in line with the rule of law or be released without delay,” he added

Militants run for their lives as military takes over Kaiama against the declaration of Niger Delta Republic

Militants run for their lives as military takes over Kaiama against the declaration of Niger Delta Republic

South Unknown   16:01

The military has secured Boro Town, the nation home of the late Ijaw freedom contender, Isaac Adaka Boro, in Kiama, Kolokuma-Opokuma local government area of Bayelsa State, due to various threats issued by a group of militants to announce the Republic of Niger Delta.

The militants known as, Adaka Boro Avengers (ABA), said earlier that it would declare the Niger Delta Republic and open its headquarters in Kaiama.

However, because of the presence of the military in the region, and the Kaiama area in particular the group were prevented from making such declaration.

The Niger Delta Republic was initially proclaimed on February 23, 1966 when a militia group known as, Ijaw Volunteer Force (IVF) headed by the late Boro who fought the Federal Government and requesting a fair amount of the oil revenue.

Regardless of the valour of Boro and his assembly, the capability of government powers effortlessly routed, captured and imprisoned the aggressors for treachery.

In any case, the government of Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) allowed Boro reprieve on the eve of the Nigerian civil war in May 1967, enrolled him in the Nigerian Army as a Major where he battled in favour of the government, however was murdered in some kind of mysterious circumstances while still in active service to the nation in 1968.

Similarly, on December 11, 1998, Ijaw individuals from various communities in the Niger Delta which represents over 40 Ijaw clans, assembled at the noteworthy town of Kaiama to propel their grievance and lucid their goals for Ijaw people.

In line with their agitation, they established the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) in the wake of embracing the popular Kaiama Declaration.

It was further gathered by journalists that as a result of the various security threats by the ABA to rehash what the late Boro later denied, the military in a joint operation with the Department of State Service (DSS), the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) raged the group at the weekend.

Various security agents have allegedly taken key positions in various parts of the community.

Oil production to increase, as MEND reach a truce with the federal government

Oil production to increase, as MEND reach a truce with the federal government

South Unknown   23:44

The present dialogue between the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, MEND, and the Federal Government targeted at bringing an end to militancy in the Niger Delta region have accomplished sweeping bargains.

The shared view so far achieved in the negotiation, occurring through oil companies and security offices, incorporates the arrival of previous aggressor pioneer, Henry Okah, in jail in South Africa and Charles Okah, held in Nigeria.

It was additionally concurred that the ex-MEND officer, Government Ekpemupolo, otherwise known as Tompolo, won't be captured or threatened by government in the event that he appears as a representative on MEND Aaron Team 2, while the previous leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, and those kept with him would be discharged on condition that they deny the unsettling for the Republic of Biafra.

In an announcement released on Saturday by its representative, Jomo Gbomo, MEND declared different achievements in the talks that it said will soon end the disturbances in the South-South and South-East districts of the nation. It however brought up that there is still space for the steady Niger Delta Avengers, NDA, to grasp peace falling flat which a mix of military strengths and volunteers in the district would angle them out.

The announcement reads, “The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is the only militant group from the Niger Delta region who are presently engaged in a dialogue with the Federal Government of Nigeria – through oil companies and security agencies -with a view to resolving the current Niger Delta crisis.”

“Thus far, the deliberations have been fruitful, various concessions and guarantees have already been secured. Some of which include, but are not limited to: Release of Henry Okah, Charles Okah and Obi Nwabueze; Review of the life sentence handed to Mr. Edmund Ebiware based on a proposal put forward by the Aaron Team representative for Abia and Imo states, Senator Adolphus Wabara.

“Also, conditional release of IPOB leader, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu and others if they renounce their agitation for a “Biafra Republic,” the group said.

MEND further uncovered that it was concurred that: “That Mr. Government Ekpemupolo shall not be arrested, harassed and/or intimidated whenever he makes himself available as a delegate of the MEND Aaron Team.”

The announcement reads, “That international arbitrator and conflict negotiator, American Dr. Judith Asuni shall be accepted as the representative of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) on the MEND Aaron Team; that the criminal charges against Urhobo freedom fighter, Mr. Kelvin Prosper Oniarah shall be reviewed.

“That the life sentence which was handed to seven soldiers in 2008, who actively supported the Niger Delta struggle be reviewed under the Presidential Amnesty Programme. The affected persons are: Suleiman Alabi Akubo, Major. Mathias Peter, SGT, Alexander Davou, L.Cpl., Moses Nwaigwe, L.Cpl., Nnandi Anene, L.Cpl. Taatihi Emmanuel, L.Cpl and Caleb Bawa, PTE,” it said. . “However, one of the most immediate and urgent fallout of the ongoing dialogue is the imperative for the Federal Government and MEND to jointly and separately take proactive steps to rescue and secure the region. This is in the event that the recalcitrant Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) continuing on its senseless and politically-motivated path of attacks on the country’s oil assets,” it noted.

“To this end, both parties agreed that the Special Forces of the Nigerian Army should commence the purely routine but strategic military exercise code-named “Operation Crocodile Tears”; while MEND would commence a meet-the Government-Actors-and-People tour of the Niger Delta region code-named “Operation Moses,” MEND stated. 

Drama as the Nigerian Police Charge a 6-Year old boy for murder In Enugu

Drama as the Nigerian Police Charge a 6-Year old boy for murder In Enugu

South Unknown   17:18

Nigerians from all walks of life have publicly condemned the decision of the Nigerian Police, Enugu State command for arresting and charging a six-year-old boy, whose name is given as Chibuike Oramalu for murder.

According to sources, the little boy was kept under detention for about a month. Though he was later released after the news went viral and was condemned by the public. When contacted, the Police said he was not arrested but put under “protective custody”.

The case took a different twist, when the boy was arraigned for the alleged offence, after the Police Commissioner in Enugu State, Emmanuel Ojukwu promised that because the suspect is a minor in the eyes of the law, he would not be charged for the offence.

According to the Civil Rights Realisation and Advancement Network (CRRAN), which has been showing interest in the case to ensure that the little boy is freed, has expressed their disappointment over the actions of the Police.  Thus, have written a petition to the Police Service Commission to bring all the perpetrators of the wicked act to book.

Mr. Olu Omotayo who is the President of the rights group said: “We write to you in respect of the above-mentioned, which had earlier commanded your attention vide several petitions sent to you at the inception of this matter.

“We started the massive campaign for the release of Chibuike Oramalu on Saturday the 9th day of July 2016. The 6 year old was taken into custody at the State Criminal and Investigation Department (State CID), Police Headquarters, Enugu, on the 30th May 2016 and was finally released on the 13th July 2016.

“During the unlawful 6 weeks sojourn of Chibuike Oramalu, in Police cell at the State CID, Enugu, the Police Commissioner had maintained that Chibuike was in ‘protective custody.’

“The case took another dimension this morning when the Police called Mrs. Oramalu that she should bring Chibuike to the Police Headquarters. Mrs. Oramalu went there with Chibuiike and Police proceeded to Magistrates’ Court with Chibuike and Edwin Oforma, the owner of the said gun who had earlier reported to the Police.

“At the Magistrates’ Court, Police filed a Charge of Conspiracy and murder against Chibuike and Edwin Oforma. Oforma was also charged with unlawful possession of a Zebra English made double barrel gun.

“Chibuikes’ mother informed us as they were being taken court and we promptly made appearance in court on behalf of the 6 year old boy Chibuike Oramalu.

“The Learned Magistrates’ His Worship Hillary Asogwa, after listening to our submission agreed that the 6 year old boy is incapable of committing crime and as such he could not be remanded in prison custody.

“The learned Magistrate, therefore, released Chibuike Oramalu on bond to the mother but went ahead to remand Mr. Edwin Oforma in prison for murder and unlawful possession of double barrel gun. We attached herewith the said Charge Sheet.

“We salute the courage and wisdom of His Worship Hillary Asogwa in this matter and we know that with likes of him on the bench there is greater hope for the judiciary in this country.”

Omotayo further stressed that “Chibuike Miracle Oramalu, a primary 2 pupil of Carmelite Nursery and Primary School, Nike Avenue, G.R.A. Enugu, was taken into custody at the State Criminal and Investigation Department (State CID), Police Headquarters, Enugu, on Monday, the 30th day of May 2016.

“The incident that led to Chibuike arrest and detention happened on the 29th day of May 2016 at their residence No.5/7, Robito Cresent, Independence Layout, behind Government House, Enugu, where Mrs. Nwakaego Oramalu works as a cleaner and house keeper.

“On Sunday the 29th May 2016, while Mrs. Nwakaego was away to Adoration Ministries for the church Sunday service, the son of her employer, Chukwunanu Oforma, a National Youth Corps member asked the little Chibuike and his 10 year old elder brother named Ifeanyichukwu Oramalu to clean and tidy up his fathers’ room (Mr. Edwin Oformas’ room).

“While the two children were cleaning up the room, Ifeanyichukwu was sweeping while Chibuike was laying the bed. Chibuike saw a gun near the bed and carried it; he showed the gun to the brother Ifeanyichukwu who asked him to return the gun.

“While Chibuike was returning the gun he mistakenly pulled the trigger and a shot went off, shattered the glass window of the room, pierced the wall of the next building passed out on the other side and went and hit a 12 year old boy named Oluebube Boniface on the chest. Oluebube died instantly.”

In his petition, he emphasised “that the arraignment of the 6-year-old Chibuike today for murder by the Police is a mockery and abuse of administration of justice in this country.

“The question is why are the officers handling this matter bent on sending the 6 year old to prison either by whatever crook means. The Police Service Commission has to live up to his responsibility and save the Nigeria Police and the country in general from this type of embarrassment.

“We also appeal to kind hearted Nigerians to help the mother of Chibuike whose house cleaning job has already been terminated by this incident and she has also lost the benefit of the accommodation given to her by her former employer.

“We also appeal to kind hearted Nigerians to assist the family of Ukwa Boniface with fund to pay for the post-mortem as requested by the Police and the burial of their 12 year old son, Oluebube Boniface, who died in the incident. The deceased was also a primary school pupil, while the father is a poor commercial tricycle operator.” 

Asari Dokubo's first wife dies in an autocrash

Asari Dokubo's first wife dies in an autocrash

South Unknown   18:21

The first wife of Alhaji Asari Dokubo, Alhaja Zainab Asari Dokubo is dead

According to report, Zainab died in a road traffic accident along with one of her friend.

The death of Asari’s wife and her friend was confirmed by the Chairman of the Oyo State Muslim Community, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni. The statement further said that Zainab was already a Muslim before she and Asari got married.

Before her relocation to Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, when she was appointed the Secretary of the Muslims Pilgrims Board, she was living in Ibadan

 “Even then, there was hardly any month she was not in Ibadan for one Islamic programme or the other.

“She was a member of many Islamic organisations in Ibadan including Oluyole Muslim community under the Imamship of Imam Mudashir Bada.

“It is interesting she was coming to her preferred town Ibadan when she met her destiny.

“She was survived by four children Amirah, Hassan, Hussain and Osama.

“May Allah accept her multifarious and multidimensional jihad as acts Ibadah and admit her to jannat Firdaous,” Alhaji Sanni said. 

Nigerian Army unveils 'Exercise Crocodile Smile' against Niger Delta Militants

Nigerian Army unveils 'Exercise Crocodile Smile' against Niger Delta Militants

South Unknown   17:16

In a bid to curb the activities of militancy in the South, and Niger Delta in particular, the Nigerian Army recently declared that it has launched tactical drills in Enugu State which will commence this weekend.

The army code-named the drill as ‘Exercise Crocodile Smile’ which according to sources is targeted at preparing the Amphibious and Internal Security Operations in the region.

This strategic exercise is coming up as a result of the warning issued by the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, where he said, henceforth, the military would apply force against the Niger Delta militants, unless they embrace peace and dialogue with the Federal Government.

It was further said that, “Government is still committed to dialogue and whereby this cannot go on, then, there could be resort to other means. The non-kinetic (force) means has always been the source first before government can make recourse to the kinetic means.

“So, there is need for the Niger Delta Avengers to see reason and engage in dialogue with government.”

This is the content of the post obtained from the social media page of the Army, “The Nigerian Army will from this weekend commence another training exercise code named ‘EXERCISE CROCODILE SMILE’ in 82 Division and part of 2 Division areas of responsibility traversing the South-South geo-political region.

“The aim of the exercise is to practice our Special Forces and other units of the Nigerian Army in Amphibious and Internal Security Operations in riverine environment and also check criminal activities like kidnapping, militancy and piracy and other forms of criminal activities in support of the civil authority.

“The general public is please requested not to panic on the sight of unusual movement of large number of troops, heavy military weapons and equipment in these areas.”

TINUBU BLASTS PRESIDENT BUHARI OVER NIGER DELTA PROBLEMS

TINUBU BLASTS PRESIDENT BUHARI OVER NIGER DELTA PROBLEMS

South Unknown   18:54

Bola Tinubu has upheld that cautious exclusion of Ibe Kachikwu as the Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) which was published in the Nation’s newspaper titled “Kachikwu Fate,” dated July 12, with control of northern mafias as they are given all the juicy positions may result to ethnic crisis.

Earlier on, an advocacy group in the Niger Delta had faulted the unjust removal of Kachikwu from his position as the GMD, saying it was an act of disservice to the people of the Niger Delta.

In a statement released by its President, Nelly Emma; Secretary, John Sailor and Public Relations Officer, Stanley Mukoro, the group stressed that the abrupt removal of Kachikwu, was an unfair treatment, not only to the hard-working technocrats, but to the entire people of the neglected oil rich Niger Delta Region. Saying that “the appointment of Baru by the President, is not in the best interest of the nation, but to satisfy the interest of the North.”

Tinubu while criticizing Buhari’s action, said: “The president appointed a new board for the NNPC… That decision defrocks Ibe Kachikwu of that position, which leaves him as the Minister of State for Petroleum.

“First, Baru’s replacement of Kachikwu, implies that Kachikwu would not only run the NNPC behemoth, but will now only act on the behest of the President, who doubles as Petroleum Minister’’.

According to some anaylysts, Kachikwu’s office at the risk of becoming plum, because Baru will be reporting directly to the president. Adding that the office of Minister of State is just a formality to obey the law of federal character.

‘’What worried the Nigerian society more, was the skewed nature of the board. Of the six names on the board, only one is regarded as belonging to the oil-producing area of the Niger Delta. That name is Dr. Thomas John. The others are either from the southwest or the north. In fact, if we add the managing director, it is a northern affair.

‘’Since the days of Adako Boro, the region has not muted its outcry for its residents to enjoy the oil that comes from the bowel of their earth. Granted that the governments of the region, whether state or local governments, or even interventions like the Niger Delta Development Commission, have also sharply fallen short of local expectations, the Federal Government ought not to compound it”.

finally, Tinubu emphasized: “The region suffers, for most part, from collusion between oil firms and the political elites in Abuj,a to determine the fates of their citizens. It is in that context that this new raft of NNPC appointees is viewed. It is also curious that the President could appoint Abba Kyari, his Chief of Staff, as a member of the board.

“The nation needs to know why. Kyari’s job as the President’s closest staff, should not only be enough for one man, but compels him to look at all departments of government with even judgment.”

MILITANTS BLOW UP NNPC GAS PIPELINE IN OGUN STATE

MILITANTS BLOW UP NNPC GAS PIPELINE IN OGUN STATE

South Unknown   10:56

Again suspected Niger Delta Militants have successfully blown up gas pipeline in PZ Estate, in Ogun State, which serves as a distribution line to some companies in Lagos State.

 The militants earlier went to the area, pretending to be officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) as reported by Channels Television.

But as at press time, none of the dreaded militant groups have claimed responsibility for this attack, which happens to be the first of its kind in the South-West.

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) Ogijp police station, Muhammed Tijani, later confirmed the attack and said investigations were going on at the moment.

According to a source “What we heard is that during the day, some people disguised as NNPC staff. They reportedly came with two Hilux vehicles and pretended as if they carried out some repairs. Later at night, the explosion occurred.”

BIAFRANS INVOKE THE SPIRIT OF THEIR DEAD MEMBERS TO HUNT KILLERS

BIAFRANS INVOKE THE SPIRIT OF THEIR DEAD MEMBERS TO HUNT KILLERS

South Unknown   09:00

Report reaching us states that the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB has invoked the spirit of the 140 members supposedly killed by Nigerian security forces to trouble their killers and accomplice.

The group also made it clear through its Deputy Leader Uche Mefor that the occasion put in place to remember the Biafran heroes was not an Igbo affair.

According the statement: “The souls and spirits of 140 unarmed, defenceless, non-violent and innocent citizens of Nigeria of southeast and south-south extractions, mostly composed of Igbo sons and a number of Igbo daughters between the ages of 20 and 35 years, who were brutally massacred in broad day light on May 30, 2016 have been invoked to eternally go after their killers and enemies of the Igbo nation as well as those who aided and abetted the gruesome massacre until they pay for their heinous crimes and atrocities committed.”

NIGER DELTA AVENGERS CRIPPLE NIGERIAN ECONOMY

NIGER DELTA AVENGERS CRIPPLE NIGERIAN ECONOMY

South Unknown   15:31

The Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) stated that they had bombed facility belonging to ExxonMobil in southern Nigeria, as Shell declared the closure of a major oil pipeline.

According to sources, “At about 7:30pm, the Avengers blew up ExxonMobil Qua Iboe 48 crude oil export pipeline.”

The militants expressed their anger as the IOCs had defied its calls to stop exporting.

According to the Avengers, they want all oil majors to vacate the Niger Delta region, because them and the federal government have disappointed the people of the region from benefiting from their God’s given natural resources for many decades oil and gas exploration.

The group is also clamouring for true federalism and self-determination.

The renewed militancy has drastically reduced output in Nigeria at a time the country is revolving from low international crude prices that has adversely affected the revenue of the government.

Also, Anglo-Dutch oil giant Shell said it shut down the Trans Niger Pipeline on Monday as a result of a leakage at Gio, in Ogoniland, Rivers State.

Though the company did not make known the volume of production shut-in, however, the pipeline is projected to transport 180,000 barrels per day of crude to the Bonny export terminal.

ALHAJI ASARI DOKUBO SPITS FIRE

ALHAJI ASARI DOKUBO SPITS FIRE

South Unknown   15:19

Alhaji Mujahid Asari Dokubo and leader of the obsolete Niger Delta Peoples’ Volunteer Front (NDPVF) has distanced himself from any supposed planned negotiations between the Buhari led government and the members of the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA).


Dokubo accused President Buhari of committing a genocide war against the Ijaw nation, as his body language and actions are at variance with what he speaks.

Dokubo emphasized in strong terms that he had not delegated anyone to represent him in any negotiation. And cannot also condemn the actions taken by the Avengers.

He further called on the federal government to call for a National Sovereign Conference which must be monitored by the United Nations and address the Niger Delta issues, if Nigerian government want peace to be.


In his statement Dokubo stressed that: “The public should note that I, Alhaji Mujahid Abubakr Dokubo-Asari,Alabo Edi Abali -Abala Buruburu 1 of Kalabari had not entered, directed, appointed or delegated any person or group of persons to negotiate or enter into dialogue with any president, vice president, governor, minister, national security adviser, any committee or institution in furtherance of the Nigerian states pretension to the pursuance of peace in the occupied Ijaw, Niger Delta Region and The United States of Biafra(USB)”.

KIDNAPPERS NOW USE JOB INTERVIEW AS A BAIT IN RIVERS STATE

KIDNAPPERS NOW USE JOB INTERVIEW AS A BAIT IN RIVERS STATE

South Unknown   07:53

A new strategy has been devised by kidnappers in Rivers State as they explore the unemployment in the country their bait.

They send sms to the public inviting people for job interviews and get them kidnapped upon their arrival for the ‘job interviews’.


A government employee named Joseph revealed to Southern City News how a son to one his friend’s cousin was abducted after responding to one of such invitation for a ‘job interview.’

He used the opportunity to warn the public not to honour any sort of job interview sent through sms if the person never made such application.

As at Saturday, the family members of the victim were asked to pay the sum N5m as ransom, but later reduced it to N2.5m which is still very difficult for the family to pay.

The victims life is now on the line as they have threatened to kill him if the ransom is not paid.

When the State Police command was contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Nnamdi Omoni told Southern City News that the Anti-kidnapping Unit of would be briefed.


He further assured that measures would be put in place to arrest those behind the crime.

FINALLY, IT IS REVEALED WHY THE ARMY CANNOT CATCH THE AVENGERS

FINALLY, IT IS REVEALED WHY THE ARMY CANNOT CATCH THE AVENGERS

South Unknown   16:49

It has been revealed why the Niger Delta Avengers are so hard to apprehend. According to a security source he said “have you asked the question why these hoodlums successfully attack oil installations close to military houseboats without being caught?

He further stressed that the militants planted the devices strategically in their chosen areas of attack and ignite them at will long after leaving the targeted area.

According to him, “These device are reactive substances that contain explosive energies, which produces an explosion when released.”

NIGERIA BLEEDS AS MILITANTS BOMB MORE OIL FACILITIES

NIGERIA BLEEDS AS MILITANTS BOMB MORE OIL FACILITIES

South Unknown   12:57

The Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) inflicted more havoc to the Nigerian economy as another oil facility owned by Chevron Nigeria Limited was blown up on Wednesday night.

This came about 24 hours after the dreaded agitators reportedly destroyed a pipeline which belongs to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) at Eleme in Rivers State, which leads to the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas.

The group made these attacks known through its spokesman, Mudock Agbinibo “Between the hours of 10:50pm to 11:10pm our (Niger Delta Avengers) strike team blew up Chevron Manifolds. The Manifolds are RMP 22, 23 and 244.”

THE ENCOUNTER OF THE NIGER DELTA WAR LORDS

THE ENCOUNTER OF THE NIGER DELTA WAR LORDS

South Unknown   21:26

Comrade Newuwumi also known as ‘Gentle General’ who is a native of the Itsekiri ethnic nationality in an interview he had with the Vanguard newspaper made known his opposition to kidnapping and criminalisation of the Niger Delta struggle

Furthermore, he made known his association with Tompolo, the unsettling for social and monetary equity in the oil-rich Niger Delta and the rough militant group, the Niger Delta Avengers. Quotations:

MILITANTS KILL AGIP WORKERS

MILITANTS KILL AGIP WORKERS

South Unknown   21:28

Some unknown gunmen operating along the creeks of the Niger Delta killed two AGIP workers in Nembe, Nember LGA.

According the Nation, the workers were killed yesterday (Thursday).

The men came under attack while being conveyed by a boat from Obama Flow Station to Akemplai jetty when the gunmen attacked them.

As at press time, the mission of the company’s workers could not be confirmed, however, some persons stated that they were returning back to their base after repairing pipelines that were damaged when the militants attacked them.

According to security source, the gunmen opened fire on them when they sighted the speedboat conveying the workers.

The source further said that three of the workers were rescued, while the other two were declared missing.

Thus, it is not clear whether the two missing were actually killed or taken hostage by the gunmen.

NIGER DELTA GROUP ACCUSE BUHARI OF TAKING NIGERIA’S UNITY FOR GRANTED

NIGER DELTA GROUP ACCUSE BUHARI OF TAKING NIGERIA’S UNITY FOR GRANTED

South Unknown   13:03

President Buhari has been accused by the United Niger Delta Energy Development Security Strategy (UNDEDSS) of working towards the disintegration of the country by continuously deploying the military to the Niger Delta region, emphasising that the president should following the strategy of the Yar’Adua/Jonathan regime in tackling the Niger Delta crises.

The Secretary General of the organisation, Tony Uranta un-behalf of the group stressed that the current government is not taking the unity of the country seriously with the way sensitive issues are being handled

He further stressed that the people of the region has unanimously determined to resist any other attempt by the federal government to toy with the future and unity of Nigeria by continuing to deploy the military in the Niger Delta maliciously.

Despite the fact that the nation is being fed by the resources of Niger Delta people, there is nothing to show for the over 50 years of oil and gas exploration, worst of it all was the cancellation of the only Nigeria Maritime University that was billed to start academic session this year by the present administration.

                                              

BREAKING NEWS: Militants find a new haven in Lagos.

BREAKING NEWS: Militants find a new haven in Lagos.

South Unknown   13:23

Armed men believed to be Niger Delta militants were reported to have raided the residents of Igbolomu and Ishawo areas in Ikorodu LGA of Lagos State. It was revealed by eyewitnesses from one of the affected areas that militants from the Niger Delta entered the area via the water way and began random shooting.

However, as at the time of reporting, there were no much detail about the attack as everyone is scampering for safety.

Tears as a former Supreme Court judge, Justice Niki Tobi, is dead.

Tears as a former Supreme Court judge, Justice Niki Tobi, is dead.

South Unknown   16:48

It was reported that Justice Tobi passed on last Friday at the National

Hospital, Abuja, from an unknown illness.

The Late Justice was learnt to be regarded in the Nigerian legal circle as a highly brilliant judicial officer and had been ill for a while

Information from the nation’s Supreme Court said that the court got the sad news today (Monday) the jurist’s demise, and the corpse has been moved to the Garki hospital, Abuja.

His death came almost one month to his 76th birthday.

The deceased who was born in Esanma, Bomadi LGA of Delta State, retired on July 14, 2010 as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.