A group of former Niger Delta militants known as the Ekpeye Liberation Group has issued a 14-day ultimatum to oil companies operating in Ekpeyeland, Rivers state, to vacate the state or face massive vandalisation of their assets.
The group also claimed responsibility for attacks on Well 5 in Akara Olu, Ahoada west local government area of Rivers state.
In a statement signed by its spokesman, Obodo Obodo, the group said its warning was directed at the Nigerian Agip Oil Company, Shell Petroleum Development Company, Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas and Niger Delta Petroleum Resources.
The statement reads: “The Ekpeye Liberation Group, a forum of ex-militants and freedom agitators from the Ekpeye Ethnic Nationality in Rivers State (Part of the Niger Delta), is utterly disappointed with the conduct of the oil multinational companies operating in the area.
In the light of their nonchalant, including lukewarm attitude to the massive killings and kidnappings of our people in recent times, the Ekpeye Liberation Group has been forced to issue a notice of eviction to all oil companies operating in Ekpeye territory and its waters.
“They (oil companies) are required to pack out of Ekpeyeland within 14 days, from Thursday 16th of June or face massive vandalisation of their assets. A stitch in time saves nine.”