Rivers Crisis: Militant Group Threatens To Attack Oil Facilities

A militant group, the Niger Delta Rescue Movement (NDRM), has issued a stern warning that the country’s oil production will face disruptions unless the federal government and other key political actors in Rivers State address the ongoing crisis and release the state’s allocation promptly.

The group, which has expressed deep concern over the political tension in the state, also advised non-indigenes to leave Rivers State for their safety, with an imminent escalation of hostilities threatening the region.

The crisis erupted following a Supreme Court judgment on February 28, 2025, which upheld a decision to halt the state allocation until a legitimate House of Assembly is formed, with Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule as Speaker. In response, Amaewhule issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara to present the state’s 2025 budget before the House. This ultimatum expired on Wednesday midnight, further intensifying the situation.

In a video that surfaced on social media on Thursday, a group of militants, believed to be members of NDRM, appeared in an undisclosed forest. Armed with AK-47s and other rifles, the militants chanted “asawana, asawana,” a traditional slogan of the Ijaw people.

One of the militants, who appeared to be the leader, expressed the group’s discontent, saying:

“We, the Niger Delta Rescue Movement, wish to express our deep concern regarding the recent developments in Rivers State. The attempt to destabilize our state under the leadership of Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara is alarming and could lead to a crisis. The 48-hour ultimatum issued to the governor to present the 2025 budget is nothing but a blatant effort to incite chaos, possibly leading to a state of emergency or even an impeachment.”

The leader continued, urging President Bola Tinubu to step in and stop the actions of former governor Nyesom Wike and his associates, who the group claims are behind the unrest:

“We call on President Bola Tinubu to intervene immediately and stop the actions of Wike and his associates, whose intent is to drag Rivers State into a crisis. The people of Rivers State want stability, progress, and a conducive environment for governance.”

The militants issued a clear ultimatum to the government, stating:

“If the federal allocation due to Rivers State is not released promptly, we will take decisive action, including targeting oil production. We can’t continue to contribute to the national treasury without receiving our due share.”

The group also warned non-indigenes in the state, advising them to consider their safety:

“We urge all non-indigenes to leave the state promptly as the situation may escalate. We cherish the safety of all residents and urge for a peaceful resolution. Enough is enough. We stand united for the future of Rivers State.”

In a final note, they emphasized the importance of development, adding:

“We demand respect from our leaders and focus on the development of our region.”

The situation remains tense, with fears of escalating violence and disruptions in Nigeria’s crucial oil sector.