Mr. Jomo Gbomo, a founding member and spokesperson for the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), has affirmed the group’s commitment to collaborating with security operatives to safeguard crude oil installations in the Niger Delta from any threats of sabotage.
In a statement issued on Friday in Port Harcourt, Gbomo condemned recent threats made by some “repentant” militants and agitators in the region against these crucial oil facilities.
Gbomo emphasized that MEND has distanced itself from any form of violence rooted in political conflicts, stressing that the group remains committed to a non-violent approach to addressing regional issues.
He voiced concern over threats to the nation’s economic stability resulting from a political rift between two prominent Niger Delta politicians, formerly allies.
Gbomo noted the unfortunate nature of this dispute, especially as both individuals are from the Niger Delta and should ideally prioritize the region’s peace and development over political rivalry.
“We will not be drawn into violent actions against the Nigerian state over political disagreements between politicians, regardless of any inducements,” Gbomo stated.
He underscored his personal commitment to peace as an Ijaw son, recognizing the significance of having an Ijaw governor in Rivers State—a development that he believes would have been impossible without collaborative efforts from other ethnic groups within the region.
Highlighting the contributions of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike, in fostering inter-ethnic cooperation within the Niger Delta, Gbomo acknowledged Wike’s role in creating an environment conducive to electing an Ijaw governor.
He attributed this progress to healthy collaboration among the diverse ethnic groups in the region, emphasizing the need for unity rather than division.
In light of this, Gbomo announced MEND’s commitment to cooperating fully with security agencies to ensure that individuals or groups attempting to undermine the peace of the region or disrupt crude oil production are swiftly dealt with, alongside their sponsors.
“We will stand by security operatives to prevent any disruptions in crude oil exploration,” he affirmed, underscoring MEND’s dedication to regional stability.
Additionally, Gbomo called on regional elders and traditional institutions to intervene impartially in the ongoing political crisis, encouraging dialogue as a means to a peaceful resolution. Should dialogue prove unsuccessful, he urged all parties involved to pursue their grievances through judicial channels, advocating a lawful approach to resolving disputes.
This statement reflects MEND’s renewed focus on peace, stability, and collaboration with security forces in protecting the economic assets of the Niger Delta amidst rising political tensions.
