A coordinated effort by the Nigerian Police Force, the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies has successfully thwarted an attempt to sabotage an oil pipeline in Rivers State.
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This incident comes amid heightened tensions following the Federal Government’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, a move that has sparked widespread reactions from organized labour and legal experts.
Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, speaking on behalf of the security agencies, reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring public safety and protecting critical national assets. He disclosed that a suspect lost his life while attempting to detonate an explosive on a pipeline in Aluu-Rumuekpe, Ikwerre Local Government Area, before security forces intervened.
“The collaborative efforts of the Police, Armed Forces, and other security agencies have been crucial in sustaining peace and preventing security threats. The protection of national infrastructure remains a top priority, and we urge residents to provide credible intelligence on any suspicious activities,” Adepoju stated.
In addition to the thwarted pipeline sabotage, security forces neutralized multiple criminal operations across the state. On March 21, 2025, security personnel arrested eight suspected kidnappers along Omoku Road in Ahoada East Local Government Area and rescued six victims. The operation also led to the recovery of firearms, motorcycles, and communication equipment.
Another significant operation took place in Onelga Local Government Area on March 19, 2025, where two individuals were apprehended in possession of explosives, detonating devices, and other related materials. Security agencies also dismantled several illegal oil refining sites, confiscating stolen crude oil and refined products. These efforts resulted in the destruction of 30 illegal refining sites, 55 ovens, 20 reservoirs, 50 dug-out pits, 100,000 liters of stolen crude oil, and about 10,000 liters of illegally refined AGO.
Commissioner Adepoju emphasized that the current state of emergency and increased security presence are crucial to addressing the emerging security threats in the state. He called on residents to work together with the security agencies by providing credible intelligence on criminal activities, particularly those targeting national infrastructure.
“We remain resolute in our mission to ensure peace and security. These actions are a clear demonstration of our commitment to protecting lives, properties, and critical national assets,” Adepoju concluded.
Meanwhile, organized labour in Rivers State, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has expressed strong opposition to the state of emergency imposed on the state. The unions have threatened industrial action unless the Federal Government reverses the decision.
In a joint statement, NLC Chairperson Alex Agwanwo and TUC Chairperson Ikechukwu Onyefuru denounced the suspension of the elected governor, deputy governor, and House of Assembly members, citing the impact on government workers, many of whom have not received their salaries.
They stated: “The state of emergency has not only disrupted governance but has also created economic hardships for workers. We urge the Federal Government to reconsider this decision in the interest of democracy and stability.”
Labour leaders also warned that the ongoing crisis is driving potential investors away, exacerbating economic difficulties. The unions vowed to take decisive action if the matter remains unresolved.
Amid the growing controversy, a Federal High Court in Abuja has been petitioned to nullify the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State. The lawsuit, filed by Abuja-based legal practitioner Johnmary Jideobi, contends that the President lacks the constitutional authority to suspend elected officials and appoint a sole administrator.
The plaintiff is seeking a court declaration that Ibas’ appointment is unconstitutional and an order preventing the President from making similar appointments in any other state. The case is seen as a pivotal legal challenge to uphold democratic governance and prevent the establishment of a dangerous precedent that could undermine Nigeria’s federal structure.
Despite the ongoing crisis, the Rivers Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibas, has announced new appointments within the state government. Prof. Ibibia Worika, a legal expert, has been named as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
Additionally, Iyingi Brown has been appointed as the acting Head of Service following the resignation of the previous officeholder, George Nwaeke. In a statement, the administration emphasized its commitment to governance continuity and stability in Rivers State.
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