Bilabiri Community sends SOS to Tinubu Bayelsa Gov, Security Chiefs over safety concerns

…alleges plots by militia groups to cause mayhem 

The Bilabiri Community in Bayelsa State has sent a distress call to President Bola Tinubu, the Bayelsa State Governor, and security chiefs, alleging plots by militia groups to cause mayhem in the area.

The community in a Save Our Soul (SOS) message claims that these militia groups are planning to orchestrate an invasion and have started infiltrating the community.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, a leader in the community, Paebi Samson pointed fingers at specific individuals, including some political figures and associates of ex-militants.

He said, “if anything happens to the community, the political leaders representing them in the State Assembly and House of Representatives must be held accountable,” adding that “This urgent plea is a testament to the responsibilities of leaders to bear in safeguarding their constituencies.”

Samson explained that the alarm was first sounded on September 19th, 2024, during a unifying event organized to welcome DARLON SECURITY, a proactive initiative aimed at enhancing community safety.

He said, amidst a vigorous discourse against criminal activities—ranging from sea piracy and kidnapping to pipeline vandalism—the community showcased a collective determination to stand against lawlessness.

“Yet, this gathering, intended to foster security, has ignited a cascade of accusations from disgruntled elements interested in reviving the very menace the initiative sought to combat. Rumors of militias infiltrating the community and rekindling violent illegality emerged, casting a shadow over the community’s newfound hope,” he said

According to him, as tension escalates, the Bilabiri Community stands resolute in its refusal to be a victim.

He said, “They are now calling for attention from high-ranking officials, including the His Excellency, the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, The Chief of Defence Staff, The Inspector-General of Police, The Chief of Army Staff, The Director General of the Department of State Services, The international community and the civil society organizations to intervene and safeguard their peace.

“Anxiety ripples through the community as reports have surfaced, indicating plans by some political figures and Mr. Ati Robert Deboh, Mr. Mina Fun Omotete, Mr. Joshua Oropere Timothy, Mr. David Okuru, Mr lucky Tubotu Mr. Bonny Igade, Mr. Yirentimiwei Jahnbo (an in-law to High Chief Oweizide Ekpemupolo, aka “Tompolo”) together with Mr. Berry Negress and Chief Ibe Jonathan and associates of ex-militants to orchestrate an invasion.

“This alarming situation has prompted the residents to clarify that any subsequent disturbance should be attributed to the political figures and the names mentioned above are implicated in the conspiracies. Their message is unequivocal: their safety is paramount, and their leaders must uphold their responsibilities, or bear the consequences of their negligence.

The Bilabiri Community does not seek bloodshed or discord but rather a return to safety and peace, firmly demanding accountability from those who are meant to protect them.”