The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has responded to threats by the Niger Delta Avengers that it was going to resume hostilities in the oil-rich region of southern Nigeria.
The Niger Delta militant group carried out a series of attacks on oil and gas installations in the troubled region beginning late 2015. Late in 2016, the group agreed on a ceasefire following the appointment of Chief Edwin Clark to negotiate on its behalf.
Clark led other Niger Delta leaders to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari in Abuja but they have accused the president on not following up with the demands presented to him.
In a statement published on its website, on Friday, announced the launch of Operations Walls of Jericho and Hurricane Joshua in the region threatening to continue hostility.
Rabe Abubakar, the spokesperson of the Defence Headquarters warned the militants as they would ensure the security and safety of the country, Punch reports on Sunday, January
“This is our country and it is the responsibility of all citizens to work for its peaceful well-being and development,” Brigadier General Abubakar said.
“The military and other security agencies will continue to ensure the protection of lives and property of citizens in the Niger Delta or any other part of the country.
“Any act of sabotage by any group will not be condoned. We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to maintain and protect our critical infrastructure in line with our mandate.
He called on all citizens to provide useful information to security operatives to help in dealing with militancy.
“All citizens should cooperate with the military and other security agencies in the area by providing timely information and report any suspicious persons or groups that threaten the economic activities anywhere in the country.
“We are not targeting anybody or group. Therefore, there is no need for any group to work against the country, no matter their grievances. Political leaders have embarked on negotiations with the stakeholders.”
