The Federal Government has deployed 10,000 personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to protect oil pipelines and curb further attacks on critical infrastructure following recent explosions in Rivers State.
The NSCDC spokesperson, Afolabi Babawale, confirmed the deployment to reporters on Wednesday, stating that the operatives are tasked with safeguarding pipelines and preventing vandalism, particularly in the Niger Delta region.
Babawale issued a stern warning against any destruction of national assets and infrastructure, emphasizing that the deployment of over 10,000 operatives, working in collaboration with other security agencies, aims to ensure the safety of lives and property in the region.
Ibas was sworn in on Wednesday, with a mandate to govern the state for an initial six-month period.
Before the imposition of emergency rule, tensions in the state were high, culminating in three explosions in two days. The explosions followed threats from Ijaw groups, who warned that they would disrupt oil production and cripple the economy if the push to impeach Fubara succeeded.
Babawale discussed the heightened state of alert across the country, particularly in the Niger Delta, with the NSCDC working closely with other security agencies to combat economic sabotage, pipeline vandalism, and destruction of government assets.
Additionally, more soldiers were seen patrolling the Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, following the departure of Governor Fubara. The exact whereabouts of the governor remain unclear, but it is suspected that he either retreated to his private residence or hometown in Opobo. Heavy security measures are now in place, with armored personnel carriers stationed at the entrance, and the movement of people and vehicles into the Government House being closely monitored.
An aide to Fubara, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the soldiers were occupying the Government House, with more soldiers arriving as an advanced team for the incoming sole administrator.
He stated, “As I speak with you, more soldiers are entering the Government House. This afternoon, over 15 came in. They are believed to be an advanced team of the Sole Administrator who is still expected to resume duties. This evening, some more soldiers came in.”
