Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has given marching orders to security agencies to arrest and prosecute pro-Biafran agitators who flouted the ban on illegal separatist processions and demonstrations in the state

This is even as the former Niger Delta agitator, High Chief Ateke Tom, has debunked meeting with leaders of Biafra struggle, where it was alleged that he gave President Muhammadu Bu­hari 14-day deadline to grant the people freedom, as dis­seminated in the media.

Yesterday’s order by Governor Wike, came on the heels of the purported procession of some people in Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state. The governor, who spoke through the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Dr. Austin Tam-George, condemned any act of criminality allegedly perpe­trated by Biafran agitators by whatever name.

He said: “It has come to the attention of the Rivers State government that some Biafran agitators have re­sorted to illegal processions, and assaulted law abiding citizens and residents of the state. “The government has directed all security agen­cies in the state to arrest and prosecute all Biafran agitators who flout the ban on illegal separatist processions and demonstrations in Rivers State.” The government, however, urged residents in the state to remain calm and law abiding.

In a swift reaction to media publication on Biafra, Ateke, who is the Leader of Niger Delta Vigilante (NDV), has denied holding meeting with Biafran leaders. He also refuted the claims that he had given 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to grant Biafra sovereignty, or he would resume his struggle.

Speaking yesterday through his spokesman, Ifeanyi Ogbonna, the ex-militant leader reiterated his warning to members of the public to stop using his pictures unauthorised.

Ateke emphasised that he knew nothing about the purported meeting and he never threatened to declare war on President Muhammadu Buhari-led government.

Ateke stated that the allegations were the handiwork of detractors, enjoining Nigerians to support Buhari’s administration.

“The High Chief has no time for such talk and he has been in his village of Okrika and has nothing to do with any Biafra meeting.”

“Nigerians should be pa­tient with the Buhari-led government and support him. Buhari is a good man; he is a peace loving man,” Ateke expressed. (Sunday Sun)