LAGOS, July 23: The main militant group in Nigeria’s oil-producing Niger Delta said on Wednesday it would attack major oil pipelines in the next 30 days to prove it had not received payment from the government to end its campaign.

The head of the state-run oil firm NNPC was quoted in Nigerian newspapers on Wednesday as saying the company had paid militant groups $12 million to protect facilities including the Chanomi creek pipeline in Delta state.

The Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), whose attacks have cut Nigeria’s oil output by around a fifth since early 2006, said the money had gone to criminal gangs and that genuine “freedom fighters” could not be bought off.

“MEND is aware that huge

payments have been made to some criminal gangs in Delta state as a protection fee...MEND will never sell its birthright for a bowl of porridge,” the group said in an e-mailed statement.

“To prove that we are not a part of this deal, the Chanomi creek pipeline and other major pipelines will be destroyed within the next

30 days,” it said.—Reuters

Opinion

Editorial

United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

AN IMF mission is in Islamabad for unusual, early talks with the Pakistani authorities as the lender seems worried...
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

BARA tehsil, a region typically known for its security challenges and socioeconomic problems, can now boast the...
System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....