There was a fairly major clash between members of the Nigerian Joint Task Force and militants from the MEND group in Delta state yesterday as a result of which MEND have advised all oil companies operating in the region to evacuate all their staff before the arrival of an "imminent hurricane". In another statement they stated, "oil companies operating in the region would be advised to remove all personnel to avoid the impact of an emerging civil war"
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In a rather more sinister statement, MEND spokesman Jomo Gbomo stated:
"Effective 0000 Hrs on Saturday, May 16, 2009, the entire Niger Delta region will be declared a no-fly zone to helicopters and float planes operating on behalf of oil companies.”
This may be the usual hot air from these people, but I hope all those who are continuing to operate in the area will be especially vigilant over the next few days.
In related attacks, up to 20 expatriates have been taken hostage during the seizing of 2 vessels in the Warri area
