The Commandant General, Riverine Security (Coast – Guard Of The Federation), Commander Bibi Oduku, has advised Niger Delta youths against vandalizing pipelines in the region.
The Commander General condemned the destruction of oil pipelines in Rivers and Akwa Ibom States and urged the people of the region to embrace peace and allow the law to take its course.
Commander Oduku warned militant groups planning to attack federal government properties across Niger Delta states to desist from doing so as miscreants may exploit the situation to engage in criminal activities.
According to him, this could lead to loss of lives among innocent citizens and military personnel deployed for peacekeeping.
He enjoined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to carefully consider taking further proactive steps that will douse the already heightened tension in Rivers State and the Niger Delta even as he supported the state of emergency declared in the state for six months by Mr. President.
Commander Oduku noted that the tension and threats in Rivers State pose a significant risk to the nation’s economy which justified the declaration of the state of emergency.
He assured that his organization, Riverine Security, is vigilant and ready to prevent unauthorized groups from engaging in illegal activities, promising that Riverine Security officers will work closely with the Nigerian Military and other security agencies to apprehend those involved in attacks on federal government properties and lives.
Commander Oduku maintained that Captains Eric Foutoru and Captain ThankGod Oprom, in charge of Rivers State waterways and Delta State, respectively, have pledged their support to the military in calming the security situation in Rivers State and Niger Delta region in general.
Warning that perpetrators of pipelines destruction will be brought to justice, he urged the people of the region to give peace a chance.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Paul T. Boroh (RTD), former Presidential Amnesty Boss, cautioned youths in the Niger Delta region against allowing anger to dictate their actions. He emphasized that President Tinubu is not a proponent of violence and urged the youths to refrain from unlawful acts that could harm lives and properties.