Rivers Crisis: N’Delta Groups Threaten Violence as Budget Ultimatum Expires Today

 Tensions have escalated in Rivers State as Niger Delta groups have issued a strong warning, threatening to take drastic action if the state government fails to resolve the ongoing budget crisis before today’s deadline.

The crisis began when the Rivers State House of Assembly, dominated by lawmakers loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike, rejected Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s budget proposal. This led to a major standoff, with Fubara’s administration accusing the lawmakers of sabotage.

Despite multiple interventions, the conflict remains unresolved, and the state has struggled to pass its 2024 budget, affecting governance and project execution.

Several Niger Delta advocacy groups have warned that if the deadlock persists beyond today’s deadline, they will take matters into their own hands.

A statement from the Ijaw Youth Congress (IYC) read: “We will not stand by while political conflicts paralyze development in Rivers State. If this crisis is not resolved today, we will be forced to act in the best interests of the people.”

Some of these groups have hinted at mass protests and blockades of oil facilities if the state government does not secure a resolution.

The federal government has urged both factions to exercise restraint and find a peaceful resolution. President Tinubu’s administration has expressed concern over the situation, warning that any breakdown of law and order in the oil-rich state could have severe economic consequences.

With the deadline now expired, all eyes are on Rivers State as tensions continue to rise.