Former Niger Delta Militant leaders have distanced themselves from the recent bombings of oil and gas pipelines in the Niger Delta region, particularly in Delta State.
A statement issued by the former warlords from the six Niger Delta states stated that none of them including Chief Government Ekpemupolo, aka Tompolo were involved in the recent destruction of oil installations in the region.
Chief Reuben Wilson, one of the former militant leaders who spoke on behalf of the others said, ”What happened was not carried out by ex-militants. The world should not label the ex-militants with evil deeds. These attacks were carried out by criminal elements.
”Some people claim Tompolo did it but he has come out to clear himself. Tompolo is a man known for his words. If he is involved in such things, he will come out open to say it and give reasons. But he is not behind these recent attacks.”
”Ex-militant leaders from the Ijaw and Itsekiri extractions have come out to express concern over the direction the issue of the attack is heading. The era of violence is over in the Niger Delta and the ex-militant leaders cannot send anybody to blow pipeline.
“We call on the Federal Government to integrate the ex-militant leaders into the protection and surveillance of oil pipelines in the region. The ex-militant leaders have important role to play with their knowledge of the creeks and water channels. Because we don’t carry arms, we expect that such security job will involve the security personnel.”
