The political landscape in Rivers State is reaching a boiling point, as a militant group, the Niger Delta Rescue Movement (NDRM), has issued a chilling warning that could cripple the state’s oil industry. The group has threatened to destroy oil pipelines within the state as a response to the latest Supreme Court judgement.
The crisis, fueled by power struggles, ultimatums, and high-stakes political manoeuvres, is now teetering on the edge of chaos.
Supreme Court Ruling Sparks Unrest
The Supreme Court’s recent ruling has set off a chain reaction, shaking the foundations of governance in Rivers State. The judgment not only halted the state’s monthly federal allocation but also nullified the controversial local government elections held on October 5, 2024. The court further mandated Governor Siminalayi Fubara to re-present the 2024 budget to the state’s House of Assembly, now officially recognized to be led by Speaker Martyns Amaewhule, alongside 27 defected lawmakers from the PDP to the APC.
With state funds now frozen and political factions battling for control, Rivers is caught in a power struggle that could spiral into full-blown instability.
Militant Ultimatum: “No Money, No Oil”
As tensions mount, the NDRM has made its stance clear: If Rivers State does not receive its due federal allocation, they will not hesitate to destroy oil pipelines and disrupt oil production within the state. In a fiery video statement, the group’s leader condemned what he called a deliberate attempt to destabilize the state, singling out the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as the mastermind behind the crisis.
“We will not sit idly by while our state is dragged into turmoil. If our funds are withheld, we will take decisive action including shutting down oil operations,” the militant leader declared.
The message is unmistakable: Rivers State is a vital economic hub, and any interference in its governance will come at a heavy cost, notably destroyed oil pipelines.
State Assembly’s 48-Hour Deadline Adds Fuel to the Fire
Amidst this escalating drama, the Rivers State House of Assembly has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Fubara, demanding he present the 2025 state budget. The Assembly has also ordered the dismissal of key political appointees and summoned the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), threatening legal action if he fails to comply.
With power shifting rapidly and legal battles unfolding, the Governor is now under intense pressure to navigate a political minefield that could determine his future in office.
Fears of Violence: Non-Residents Advised to Leave
Not only has the NDRM threatened to destroy oil pipelines, they have also issued an alarming advisory, urging non-indigenous residents of Rivers State to consider their safety and leave immediately. The group warns that the crisis could spiral into an uncontrollable conflict if urgent interventions are not made.
“We stand united for the peace and future of Rivers State. If our demands are ignored, we will not hesitate to act,” the militants warned.
What Happens Next?
With threats of violence, political ultimatums, and a state teetering on the brink of crisis, Rivers is at a critical point in its political history. Will President Bola Tinubu step in to calm the storm? Will Governor Fubara submit to mounting pressure? Or will the militants make good on their threat to cripple oil production?
As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear—Rivers State is now the epicentre of a high-stakes political battle that could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria.
