In light of recent alarming statements made by Asari Dokubo, a prominent Niger Delta militant leader, a coalition of concerned groups and stakeholders in the oil and gas industry is calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Dokubo for allegedly threatening the nation's oil production.
The group, which includes members of the Rivers State Oil and Gas Workers Union, Environmental Advocacy Coalition, and the Niger Delta Peace Initiative, expressed deep concern over Dokubo’s remarks, which they claim incite violence and disrupt the peace of the region. The group contends that these actions have the potential to severely affect oil production in the region, undermining the economy of Nigeria.
Asari Dokubo, known for his long-standing militant activities in the Niger Delta, recently issued a series of threats against oil companies and government installations. According to the group, these threats, which openly call for disruption of oil production, have already sparked fears of further instability in an area that is crucial to Nigeria’s economic well-being.
"These reckless statements not only endanger the livelihoods of workers in the oil and gas industry but also jeopardize the broader stability of the nation’s economy," said Samuel Ebi, spokesperson for the group. "We cannot afford to sit idly by as individuals like Asari Dokubo continue to threaten the vital oil infrastructure that sustains our country. We demand that authorities take immediate and decisive action to ensure peace and security in the region."
The coalition is urging the Nigerian government to ensure the swift investigation of Dokubo’s statements and take appropriate legal actions, including arrest and prosecution, for inciting violence and terrorism under Nigerian law.
The group also emphasized the need for the government to strengthen dialogue with the people of the Niger Delta to address their concerns regarding resource control and environmental degradation while maintaining law and order in the region.
"We must not allow any individual to destabilize the region for personal or political gain," said Ebi. "The government must act decisively to uphold the rule of law and prevent further disruptions to oil production in Rivers State and beyond."