24-HOUR ULTIMATUM: Rivers Vigilante Threatens to Blow Up Oil Wells if Nnamdi Kanu Is Not Freed

By DocuNews Central — Heavy tension has enveloped Rivers State following a shocking ultimatum from a well-known vigilante commander, identified as ASABUJA. He declared that if the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, is not released within 24 hours, he and his group will “blow up” oil wells and target foreign oil companies operating across the state.

During an emotional address to supporters, ASABUJA said, “If Tinubu does not free Nnamdi Kanu in 24 hours, we will shut down the economy here.” He claimed that his message represents the frustration of countless people who feel ignored by the government. According to him, this action would force both the federal authorities and international oil corporations to pay attention.

Tension Mounts as Security Agencies Move to Prevent Crisis

Security operatives across Rivers State have reportedly gone on high alert. Surveillance has intensified around critical infrastructure, including pipelines, oil terminals, and refineries. Sources within the Joint Task Force (JTF) told DocuNews Central that patrols have been strengthened, particularly in coastal and oil-rich communities.

The situation follows a recent wave of protests calling for Kanu’s release. Earlier this week, a related report by DocuNews Central revealed that demonstrators in Abuja clashed with police during a #FreeNnamdiKanu rally. Witnesses alleged that live bullets were fired, though police denied using lethal force.

ASABUJA’s Bold Declaration Sparks Fear and Debate

The ultimatum has triggered both fear and heated debate online. Many Nigerians, especially from the South-East and South-South regions, have expressed divided opinions. While some sympathize with ASABUJA’s frustration, others warn that violence could worsen the already fragile security situation in the Niger Delta.

ASABUJA, a self-proclaimed vigilante commander, has gained a large following among grassroots groups who see him as a defender of marginalized communities. In his latest broadcast, he declared, “We have suffered enough. We want justice for our brother Nnamdi Kanu. If the government refuses to listen, they will hear from us in a language they understand.”

Calls for Calm from Local Leaders

Community leaders and elders in Rivers State are urging restraint. Chief Emenike Ogbonda, a respected elder in the region, appealed for dialogue rather than destruction. “The release of Nnamdi Kanu is important, but we cannot afford another crisis in the Niger Delta. We must avoid violence,” he said.

Religious leaders have also weighed in, calling on the federal government to open channels of negotiation. “Nigeria has seen too much bloodshed. Peaceful resolution is the only sustainable path,” said Pastor Victor Amah of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Port Harcourt branch.

Federal Response: Security Tightened Nationwide

Reports indicate that federal authorities have taken ASABUJA’s threats seriously. The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigerian Army have deployed additional units to oil-producing areas. A senior NSCDC officer confirmed anonymously that “surveillance around pipelines, depots, and terminals has been doubled.”

Meanwhile, the Department of State Services (DSS) is reportedly tracking ASABUJA’s movements. Social media platforms have seen increased scrutiny as security agencies monitor content that could incite unrest. Despite this, ASABUJA’s video message continues to circulate widely, amassing thousands of views within hours.

Background: The Ongoing Detention of Nnamdi Kanu

Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since June 2021 after his controversial extradition from Kenya. His continued imprisonment has remained a polarizing issue. Supporters view him as a symbol of self-determination, while critics accuse him of inciting violence through separatist rhetoric.

Earlier this year, the Court of Appeal reaffirmed that Kanu’s extraordinary rendition violated international law. However, the federal government insists that he must face trial for alleged terrorism-related offenses. The standoff between both sides continues to fuel regional tensions.

Past Incidents and Security Flashpoints

Rivers State and neighboring Delta, Bayelsa, and Imo have witnessed sporadic unrest linked to pro-Biafra activities. Security experts recall that similar threats in 2016 and 2021 led to temporary shutdowns of oil operations. Any repeat, analysts warn, could severely impact Nigeria’s economy, which depends heavily on crude oil exports.

According to Reuters and Vanguard News, the Niger Delta region remains volatile due to grievances over environmental degradation, unemployment, and political exclusion. The new ultimatum adds another layer of uncertainty to an already delicate situation.

Economic Consequences of the Threat

The Nigerian economy could face significant damage if these threats materialize. Oil revenue constitutes more than 70% of national income. A disruption in production could lead to fuel shortages, rising inflation, and further pressure on the naira. International investors are already monitoring the situation closely.

Economist Dr. Uche Nwafor explains, “Nigeria’s stability depends on oil. If militants or vigilante groups succeed in attacking facilities, the impact will be immediate — lower exports, higher pump prices, and increased economic hardship.”

Reactions from the International Community

Foreign missions and multinational oil firms operating in Rivers and Delta states are reportedly reviewing their safety protocols. The U.S. Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory urging citizens to avoid volatile areas. Shell and TotalEnergies are said to have reinforced on-site security teams.

Meanwhile, human rights groups such as Amnesty International have reiterated calls for due process in Kanu’s case. They emphasize that peaceful protest and dialogue remain the most effective ways to resolve grievances.

Public Opinion: Divided Between Sympathy and Fear

Across social media platforms, Nigerians have expressed contrasting emotions. Some call ASABUJA a hero standing up for justice, while others label his ultimatum reckless. Many commenters believe the federal government’s delay in resolving Kanu’s case has created unnecessary tension that extremists are now exploiting.

“If they had handled Nnamdi Kanu’s matter swiftly, we wouldn’t be at this point,” said Adaora, a Port Harcourt resident. Others, like businessman Godspower Chima, disagree: “Threatening oil wells is not the way. We’ll all suffer if that happens.”

Authorities Urge Citizens to Stay Calm

In a press release, the Rivers State Police Command urged citizens to remain calm but vigilant. “We are fully prepared to protect all lives and property. No criminal group will be allowed to disrupt peace,” said spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko.

As the deadline approaches, both security and anxiety continue to rise. Local radio stations have begun airing hourly security updates, while residents stock up on essentials in fear of possible unrest.

Conclusion: The Clock Is Ticking for Peace or Chaos

Rivers State now stands at a crossroads. Whether the situation escalates or cools down depends on swift and measured responses from both the government and agitators. Dialogue remains the only sustainable path forward.

As DocuNews Central continues to monitor developments, one thing is clear — Nigeria cannot afford another wave of violence that disrupts lives and cripples its vital oil economy. The next 24 hours may determine whether the region moves toward peace or plunges deeper into crisis.

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