A classified report revealing that militant leaders have regrouped in an undisclosed creek community to strategize and coordinate attacks on oil facilities has heightened tensions in the Niger Delta. The gathering occurred just days after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency last Tuesday, effectively suspending Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara. While details remained unclear yesterday, a reliable source disclosed that the militants were engaging in extensive consultations to secure the full participation of various groups across the region. Commander Bibi Oduku, Commandant General of the Riverine Security (Coast-Guard of the Federation), confirmed the “high threats in the Niger Delta and the potential economic impact on Nigeria.” He urged President Tinubu to reconsider Fubara’s suspension. His words: “I urge President Bola Tinubu to carefully consider the suspension of the Rivers State governor because of the heightened tensions and threats in the Niger Delta. These threats pose a significant risk to the nation’s economy. “Militant groups are planning to attack federal government properties across Niger Delta states while miscreants may exploit the situation to engage in criminal activities. “This could lead to loss of life among innocent citizens and military personnel deployed for peacekeeping.” Commander Oduku, however, assured that “Riverine security officers are vigilant and ready to prevent unauthorized groups from engaging in illegal activities and will work closely with the Nigerian military and other security agencies to apprehend those involved in attacks on federal government properties.” Also, Captains Eric Foutoru and ThankGod Oprom, in charge of the Rivers and Delta States’ waterways, respectively, pledged their support to the military in calming the security situation in the states and the Niger Delta in general. Oduku recalled the statement of a former presidential amnesty boss, Brigadier General Paul T. Boroh, retd., who cautioned youths in the Niger Delta against allowing anger to dictate their actions. “President Tinubu is not a proponent of violence, so youths should refrain from unlawful acts that could harm lives and properties,’’ he said. He denounced the vandalism of oil pipelines in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, vowing that riverine security officers would apprehend and prosecute those responsible. The commandant-general urged residents of Rivers State and the Niger Delta to maintain peace and trust the legal process. Vanguard Newspaper