Federal Government Deploys 10,000 NSCDC Personnel to Protect Oil Pipelines in Niger Delta<\/strong><\/p>\n
In response to a series of explosions at oil installations in Rivers State, the Federal Government has deployed 10,000 personnel of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to prevent further attacks on critical national infrastructure. The deployment follows blasts that occurred between Sunday and Tuesday, escalating concerns over pipeline vandalism and economic sabotage.<\/p>\n
Confirming the deployment on Wednesday, NSCDC spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, stated that the operatives were assigned to protect vital infrastructure, particularly in the Niger Delta region, where oil pipelines have been targeted.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe NSCDC hereby warns against destruction and vandalism of critical national assets and infrastructure across the Niger Delta as over 10,000 operatives have been deployed to collaborate with other security agencies to provide adequate peace and security of lives and property,\u201d Babawale said.<\/p>\n
The security reinforcement comes amid heightened political tensions in Rivers State following President Bola Tinubu\u2019s declaration of emergency rule. In a national broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly. In their place, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.) was appointed as the state\u2019s sole administrator for an initial six-month period.<\/p>\n
The emergency declaration followed a charged political atmosphere that saw three explosions in two days. The attacks were reportedly linked to threats from Ijaw groups opposing moves to impeach Fubara, with the groups vowing to disrupt oil production if the governor was removed from office.<\/p>\n
On Monday, a faction of the Rivers State Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule, loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike, presented a notice listing 19 infractions allegedly committed by Fubara, paving the way for impeachment proceedings.<\/p>\n
Before this notice was served, an explosion rocked the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) in Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area, on Sunday. Security agents recovered a corpse at the scene, and a suspect was arrested in connection with the blast.<\/p>\n
A staff member of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), identified as Ebikeme, disclosed that covert operations led to the arrest of the suspect.<\/p>\n
\u201cOn Sunday, the 16th of March 2025, there was a blast on the TNP Pipeline Right of Way in Aluu \u2013 Zone 5. A suspected vandal was found dead at the site from the effects of the blast. Upon further investigation, another suspected vandal was apprehended and is currently in police custody while further investigations continue,\u201d Ebikeme said.<\/p>\n
Speaking on the deployment of NSCDC personnel, Babawale reiterated that the agency remains committed to safeguarding critical assets and preventing economic sabotage.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has a statutory mandate as the lead agency in the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure. Commands across the federation have been placed on red alert to forestall acts of vandalism and destruction of government utilities,\u201d Babawale stated.<\/p>\n
He emphasized that the NSCDC is collaborating with other security agencies to ensure the protection of lives and property in the region.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, security presence has intensified in Port Harcourt, with more soldiers deployed to the Government House. Reports indicate that Governor Fubara vacated the premises on Wednesday, though his exact whereabouts remain unclear. It is uncertain whether he relocated to his private residence in Port Harcourt or returned to his hometown in Opobo.<\/p>\n
Eyewitnesses confirmed seeing increased military activity, with three Armoured Personnel Carriers stationed at the entrance of the Government House. Strict security checks were also being conducted on individuals and vehicles entering the premises.<\/p>\n
An aide to Fubara, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that soldiers were occupying the Government House.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs I speak with you, more soldiers are entering the Government House. This afternoon, over 15 arrived, believed to be an advanced team of the Sole Administrator who is still expected to assume duties. This evening, more soldiers joined them,\u201d the aide disclosed.<\/p>\n
The political and security situation in Rivers State continues to develop as the Federal Government takes measures to restore stability and protect the country\u2019s economic assets.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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