Threat to Peace: IYGG demands immediate arrest of Prof. Gumus, Gbenekama, Okumagba

Itsekiri Youth for Good Governance, IYGG, has called on relevant security agencies, including the Nigerian Police Force and the Department of State Services, to immediately arrest and prosecute Prof. Rhoda Gumus, Chief Godspower Gbenekama and Chief Victor Okumagba, for allegedly threatening the peace in Warri Federal Constituency.

The group, in a statement made available to Fresh Angle International, Monday June 8, claimed that public statements attributed to Chief Victor Okumagba, Mr. Dembofa Owekpodor and Chief Godspower Gbenekama, allegedly threatened to set Warri ablaze and destroy oil pipelines, saying the trio purportedly made derogatory comments about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

IYGG in the statement signed by Comr. Mone Oris and Prince Sam Oki Metsh, stressed: “We strongly call on the relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other appropriate authorities, to immediately investigate the alleged public statements attributed to Chief Victor Okumagba, Mr. Dembofa Owekpodor and Chief Godspower Gbenekama regarding threats to set Warri ablaze, destroy oil pipelines, and make derogatory comments about the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We hereby call for the arrest and prosecution of Prof Rhoda Gumus, Chief Gbenekama, Chief Victor Okumagba and others. Warri and the entire Niger Delta region have endured years of conflict, economic disruptions, and communal tensions.

“Any public statement that appears to encourage violence, destruction of critical national infrastructure, or incitement against constituted authority should not be ignored. Such allegations, if found to be true, could have serious implications for public safety, national security, and the economic stability of the country.

“Oil and gas pipelines are strategic national assets that sustain Nigeria's economy. Any threat to sabotage or destroy them is a matter of grave public concern and deserves urgent attention from security and intelligence agencies.

“Equally, inflammatory rhetoric capable of provoking unrest or encouraging attacks on public institutions should be thoroughly investigated in accordance with the law.

“We therefore urge the relevant authorities to carry out a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation into these alleged statements and, where credible evidence exists, ensure that those responsible are held accountable through due legal process.

“The rule of law must apply equally to every citizen, irrespective of social status, political affiliation, or influence.

“We appeal to all political leaders, traditional rulers, youth organizations, and community stakeholders across Warri and the Niger Delta to reject violence and embrace dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence.

“The future of our communities depends on maintaining peace and protecting lives and property. Warri must not be dragged into violence.

“The security of our people, the protection of critical national infrastructure, and respect for the Constitution must remain paramount.

“We therefore call on the appropriate authorities to act swiftly and decisively in the interest of justice, peace, and national security.”

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