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By: News Peddlers
Another Explosion Rocks Rivers State Amid Rising Tensions
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| Rivers State Explosion |
Just days after a major blast at the Trans-Niger pipeline in Bodo, Gokana LGA, Rivers State, another explosion has reportedly occurred at the Soku oil facility in Akuku Toru LGA. The Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria) confirmed the incident, citing eyewitness accounts of fireballs lighting up the sky.
The cause remains unclear—whether due to equipment failure, sabotage, or an attack. This marks the third such incident in less than a week, following earlier explosions in Ogoni and ONELGA. YEAC has called for an immediate investigation by NOSDRA and accountability under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.
A confidential report reveals that militant leaders have reconvened in an undisclosed creek community to coordinate attacks on oil installations, heightening fears of renewed instability in the Niger Delta. This comes shortly after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Commander Bibi Oduku of the Riverine Security warned of severe economic consequences if tensions escalate, urging Tinubu to reconsider Fubara’s suspension. He assured that security forces remain on high alert to prevent disruptions.
Five days after the emergency declaration, suspended Governor Fubara made a public appearance at a thanksgiving service in Port Harcourt, accompanied by top politicians and stakeholders. His press secretary described the event as a reaffirmation of faith amid political turmoil.
The Simplified Movement Worldwide (SMW) dismissed claims by the Attorney-General that killings justified the emergency declaration, calling it "baseless." The group insisted Rivers had been peaceful under Fubara and accused the Assembly of deliberately obstructing governance.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit challenging the suspension of elected officials, calling it unconstitutional. The suit seeks to reverse the appointment of a sole administrator and restore democratic governance.
The New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) criticized Tinubu’s move, warning it sets a risky precedent for future political conflicts. Party leader Olufemi Oguntoyinbo urged dialogue over emergency measures, recalling that past crises in Oyo State did not warrant such actions.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information, defended the decision, arguing it prevented further chaos. He warned that without intervention, militants could have crippled oil production, plunging Nigeria into deeper crisis.
As tensions simmer, the focus shifts to whether the emergency rule will restore stability or deepen divisions. With legal challenges mounting and militants regrouping, Rivers State remains on edge.