Wike, Olanisakin urge Navy to end piracy in Niger Delta

Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Abayomi Olonisakin have tasked the Navy to become more resolute in the battle against terrorism in the North-East and oil theft in the Niger Delta region.

To ensure a successful fight against the scourge, Wike donated eight security gunboats to the Nigerian Navy to enhance the fight against piracy and crude oil theft.

The donation of the boats, fitted with special security features, 200 horse power engines, 12.7mm guns, automatic grenade launchers and communication facilities, however came with a caveat that the Navy should not deploy the gunboats to neighbouring states.

While presenting the gunboats to the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas, at the Federal Lighter Terminal, Onne yesterday, Wike said the state would acquire additional 13 special boats to be distributed to the Navy, Army and the Police to boost maritime security.

“These boats are for the security of lives and property in Rivers State.  They should not be taken to the neighbouring states on any account. Any state that wants to secure her waterways should purchase her own gunboats.”