Former Niger Delta militant leader, Asari Dokubo, has sparked fresh controversy by openly challenging the Nigerian Army to a confrontation, while accusing top military officials and the government of complicity in illegal oil bunkering activities in the Niger Delta region. In a viral video widely circulated on social media, Asari alleged that senior military personnel are heavily involved in these illegal operations, benefiting from oil theft under the protection of the government.
The ex-militant claimed that the federal government, under President Bola Tinubu, is deliberately allowing military officials to engage in oil bunkering as a means of securing their loyalty and preventing them from considering a coup. This explosive accusation has sent shockwaves through the country, further fueling tensions in the already volatile Niger Delta.
Asari, who has previously been vocal about his support for President Tinubu, revealed that he was once an emissary of the president. In his statement, he claimed to have been tasked by Tinubu to address the media on various occasions, underscoring his close ties to the presidency. He also pointed fingers at the Nigerian Army, accusing them of being the main force behind the oil bunkering operations in the Niger Delta.
The Niger Delta, which has long been plagued by environmental degradation and economic hardship due to oil theft and illegal refining, continues to suffer from the impact of these activities. Asari’s accusations have reignited concerns about corruption within the military and the government's role in addressing the issues in the region.
This development is expected to escalate tensions between the ex-militant leader and the military, raising questions about the broader implications for national security and stability. The public awaits official responses from the government and the Nigerian Army concerning these allegations.
Asari’s confrontational stance and the gravity of his accusations have put a spotlight on the delicate balance of power within Nigeria’s political and military structure.
