The Niger Delta Development Force (NDDF), a militant group operating in the Niger Delta region, has issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu regarding alleged plans by Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike. The NDDF claims that Wike intends to leverage Abuja courts to block revenue allocations destined for the 23 Local Government Councils (LGAs) in Rivers State.
In statements made from Port Harcourt, NDDF spokesperson Justin Alabraba cautioned that any court ruling that restricts these funds could provoke a severe backlash, potentially reigniting hostilities in the region, which historically have resulted in extensive damage to crucial oil installations that are vital to Nigeria’s economy.
Alabraba warned that should an Abuja court deny Rivers LGAs their rightful allocations, the NDDF would respond by shutting down major oil pipelines, stating, “Nyesom Wike cannot be using Tinubu’s powers to cause problems in Rivers State without any consequences.” He emphasized that such actions could lead to broader destabilization across the Niger Delta, as Rivers State is considered the region’s headquarters.
The group expressed its strong disapproval of any judicial decisions perceived as interference in local governance, urging judicial authorities to carefully consider the serious implications of their rulings. Reports indicate that Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, a judge allegedly associated with Wike, is expected to deliver a ruling on Monday that could halt statutory allocations to Rivers LGAs. Justice Abdulmalik has previously denied any bias in this matter.
The NDDF remains adamant that any attempts to restrict the funds allocated to Rivers LGAs will not be tolerated, accusing Wike of misusing federal power to disrupt the governance of Rivers State under Governor Siminalayi Fubara.