As political tensions simmer in Nigeria, a former Niger Delta militant leader has publicly declared his support for the governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara. Asari Dokubo, a prominent figure in the region, has accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, of deploying soldiers to intimidate him ahead of local government chairmanship polls.

Dokubo claims that Wike’s soldiers and police have been flying over his house in two helicopters, sparking outrage and defiance from the former militant leader. “Nigeria cannot surrender to Wike. Rivers people will not surrender to Wike. I have the capacity to contain them and the government knows that. Let them tell Wike to back off,” Dokubo warned.

The 60-year-old Dokubo, known for his fearless reputation, vowed to take action if the military continues to disregard his authority. “I will shoot down their helicopter. I swear by Allah,” he declared. Dokubo also called for Wike to be removed from office, stating that he is “nobody without the paraphernalia of the office.”

This latest development comes as local government chairmanship polls were conducted in Rivers State, sparking concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. Dokubo has pledged to participate in the polls, promising to cast his vote and ensure that results are announced and chairmen are sworn in.

The confrontation between Dokubo and Wike’s government has raised concerns about political instability in Nigeria, particularly in the oil-rich Niger Delta region. As the country grapples with ongoing security challenges and political tensions, this latest escalation is likely to further inflame the situation.