Former Niger Delta militant leader Eshanekpe Israel, known as Akpodoro, has called on the Nigerian military to take seriously the recent threats made by Mujahid Asari Dokubo, leader of the Niger Delta Volunteer Force (NDVF).
In a statement to Vanguard, Akpodoro warned that dismissing Dokubo’s threats, which include claims to shoot down military aircraft, could encourage further challenges to state authority.
According to Vanguard, Akpodoro emphasized the military’s responsibility to uphold national integrity and sovereignty, urging decisive action against Dokubo.
He criticized Dokubo for allegedly never fully disarming during the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) and labeled his threats a direct risk to national security.
“No individual, including Dokubo, is above the Nigerian state,” he asserted, calling for accountability and transparency regarding Dokubo’s weaponry.
He also drew a comparison with Government Ekpemupolo, known as Tompolo, a former militant who has successfully contributed to peace and security in the region.
Akpodoro advised Dokubo to adopt a similar leadership approach to foster stability.
“Should Dokubo attempt to carry out his threat, the military has every right to neutralize him in defense of the state,” Akpodoro concluded, reinforcing the need for a strong response to threats against national security.
Peoplesmind