PUNCH NEWS

A new militant group in Rivers State called ‘Bayan-Men’ has again attacked another oil facility belonging to the Nigeria Agip Oil Company in the Obosi area of Omoku, Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Government Area.

The attack followed the expiration of the 24-hour ultimatum the militants issued to the company to address their demands.

It was gathered that the fresh attack resulted in an explosion that shattered the serenity of the area.

The militants claimed responsibility for the fresh attack in a statement, pointing out that they were fighting for justice for its people.

The statement signed by its Commander, General Agaba, threatened to carry out more attacks on Agip facilities if the firm failed to directly engage the communities of Omoku.

The statement read, “The action we carried out yesterday (Tuesday) as a result of Agip’s failure to comply with the 24 hours ultimatum we gave to them to engage our people on how to commence dealing directly with individual communities other than through individuals.

“We are not criminals, we are intellectuals. The fact is that when a man is pushed to the wall, he bounces back with double force. We are giving Agip another seven days to open windows of negotiation with the 27 communities of Omoku clan.

“This meeting will involve the chiefs of these communities, the Community Development Committee, chairmen of the Communities and the Youths Presidents of the 27 communities. That is how we want it.”

Spokesperson, Joint Task Force, Maj. Victor Olukoya, said he would only comment on the development in his office if our correspondent could visit him.