2016 Niger Delta conflict

Like most other African countries, British Nigeria grouped people together for governance without respect for their religious, linguistic, and ethnic differences.David D. Laitin. Hegemony and Culture: Politics and Religious Change among the Yorubas (1986). Chicago: The University of Chicago Press. The region became part of a Niger Coast Protectorate in the 1890s when communities of Niger Delta signed an agreement with the British colonial agents.{{Cite web|title=Oil Rivers {{!}} region, Nigeria|url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Oil-Rivers|website=Encyclopedia Britannica|language=en|access-date=2020-05-25}} It was subsumed into the Southern Nigeria Protectorate in 1900 without consultations with the people of the region. Southern Nigeria was then merged with the Northern Nigeria Protectorate in 1914 despite the political and cultural differences between the various ethnicities.James Ohwofasa Akpeninor. Merger Politics of Nigeria and Surge of Sectarian Violence (2013). AuthorHouse. Nigeria, which gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1960, had at that time a population of 60 million people consisting of nearly 300 differing ethnic and cultural groups.Kristin Henrard. The Interrelation between the Right to Identity of Minorities and their Socio-economic Participation (2013). Martinus Nijhoff Publishers.

Nigeria's oil, which became its primary source of income after independence from the British Empire, was located in the south of the country.{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/596712.stm|title=Biafra: Thirty years on|date=13 January 2000|work=The BBC|author=Barnaby Philips|access-date=1 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090930041007/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/596712.stm|archive-date=30 September 2009|url-status=live}} The Igbo-dominated secessionist state of Biafra that came into existence in 1967 acquired the oil-rich region which played a key role in the Nigerian civil war.Christopher N. Ekong, Ettah B. Essien, Kenneth U. Onye Civil Wars of the World: Major Conflicts Since World War II (2013). Strategic Book Publishing. Page 571 Despite this, the region's development was ignored by successive governments. As a result, the region remains the poorest and most backward region of the country.Karl DeRouen, Jr., Uk Heo The Economics of Youth Restiveness in the Niger Delta (2007). ABC-CLIO. Page 90 The region's waters have also become highly polluted due to millions of tons of oil being spilled. Due to these reasons, the region has become afflicted with militancy.Jürgen Scheffran, Michael Brzoska, Hans Günter Brauch, P. Michael Link, Janpeter Schilling The Economics of Youth Restiveness in the Niger Delta (2012). Springer. Page 534

People of the region have protested against the negative impact of the oil industry, corruption and lack of development.{{Cite web|title=Towards ending conflict and insecurity in the Niger Delta region - Nigeria|url=https://reliefweb.int/report/nigeria/towards-ending-conflict-and-insecurity-niger-delta-region|website=ReliefWeb|date=13 September 2017 |language=en|access-date=2020-05-25}} In recent years, militant groups seeking to control the resources have indulged in oil theft and violence which sometimes has been claimed as retribution for mistreatment of the locals by the oil industry.E.M. Young Food and Development (2013). Routledge. Page 534 A violent insurgency was carried out under the banner Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) until an amnesty agreement in 2009 by Late President Umaru Musa Yar'adua.{{Cite news|last=Rice|first=Xan|date=2009-08-06|title=Nigeria begins amnesty for Niger Delta militants|language=en-GB|work=The Guardian|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2009/aug/06/niger-delta-militants-amnesty-launched|access-date=2020-05-25|issn=0261-3077}} The election of Goodluck Jonathan (a Christian) as President of Nigeria was a significant factor in the ceasefire as he hailed from the region and was considered to be sympathetic to it.{{Cite web |date=December 27, 2015 |title=Dasukigate: We rejected Jonathan's $3 million – Islamic groups |url=https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/195797-dasukigate-we-rejected-jonathans-3-million-islamic-groups.html?tztc=1 |access-date=2023-10-19 |website=www.premiumtimesng.com}} The conflict reignited after the election of Muhammadu Buhari (a Muslim) as president in 2015. This was due, in part, to rumours that Buhari was considering scrapping the amnesty agreement and, more generally, the traditional northern–southern and Muslim–Christian divide.{{cite news|url=https://issafrica.org/ctafrica/news/boko-haram-may-not-be-nigerias-biggest-threat|title=Boko Haram may not be Nigeria's biggest threat|date=7 June 2016|work=Institute for Security Studies|author=Simon Allison|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915104023/https://issafrica.org/ctafrica/news/boko-haram-may-not-be-nigerias-biggest-threat|archive-date=15 September 2016|url-status=live}}

A spate of bombings on oil installations started in February 2016.

{{cite news

|url=http://www.seattletimes.com/business/shell-nigeria-shuts-oil-terminal-as-attacks-cut-production/

|title=Shell Nigeria shuts oil terminal as attacks cut production

|agency=AP

|author1=Hilary Uguru

|author2=Michelle Faul

|publisher=Seattle Times

|date=11 May 2016

|access-date=7 September 2016

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161003154009/http://www.seattletimes.com/business/shell-nigeria-shuts-oil-terminal-as-attacks-cut-production/

|archive-date=3 October 2016

|url-status=live

}}

{{cite news

|work=Reuters

|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/nigeria-qua-outages-idUSL5N18G59U

|title=Nigeria's Qua Iboe crude oil terminal closed, workers evacuated - traders

|author1=Jarrett Renshaw

|author2=Libby George

|author3=Simon Falush

|date=19 May 2016

|access-date=30 June 2017

|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171014062246/https://www.reuters.com/article/nigeria-qua-outages-idUSL5N18G59U

|archive-date=14 October 2017

|url-status=live

}}

The Niger Delta Avengers (NDA) then publicly announced its existence in March 2016. The NDA's declared aims are to create a sovereign state and they have threatened to disrupt Nigeria's economy to achieve their goals.{{Cite news|last=Ewokor|first=Chris|date=2016-06-02|title=The Niger Delta Avengers: Nigeria's newest militants|language=en-GB|work=BBC News|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-36414036|access-date=2020-05-25}}{{Cite journal|last=Obidimma O.C.|first=Emmauel|date=September 2016|title=Violations of Citizens Rights in Nigeria; an Impediment to Ultimate Achievement of State Interest|url=http://52.172.159.94/index.php/ijird/article/download/103493/73956|journal=International Journal of Innovative Research and Development|volume=5| issue = 10|pages=287–295|via=www.ijird.com}} The group has also criticised President of Nigeria Muhammadu Buhari for never visiting the region as well as for his detention of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu, who said he was not affiliated with either MEND or the NDA.{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/926642-nnamdi-kanu-vehemently-denies-ties-mend-avengers.html|title=Nnamdi Kanu has no ties with MEND, Avengers - Lawyers|first=Chinenye|last=Ugonna|date=12 August 2016 |publisher=NAIJ.COM|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160918123721/https://www.naij.com/926642-nnamdi-kanu-vehemently-denies-ties-mend-avengers.html|archive-date=18 September 2016|url-status=live}} A militant group calling itself Red Egbesu Water Lions later emerged in May 2016 and demanded his release, as well as that of former National Security Advisor Sambo Dasuki. It also demanded that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission de-freeze the bank accounts of Government Ekpemupolo, as well as unconditional compensation to the victims of the Bonga oil spill and Chevron gas explosion.{{Cite web|title=Resurgence of militancy in Niger Delta|url=https://www.sunnewsonline.com/resurgence-of-militancy-in-niger-delta/|date=2016-06-02|website=The Sun Nigeria|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-25}} It further threatened to shut down all oil exploration activities in the region of its demands were not met.

{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/05/militants-shift-attack-bayelsa-bomb-agip-gas-pipeline/|title=Militants shift attack to Bayelsa, bomb Agip gas pipeline; demand release of Kanu, Dasuki|publisher=Vanguard|date=19 May 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160902164541/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/05/militants-shift-attack-bayelsa-bomb-agip-gas-pipeline/|archive-date=2 September 2016|url-status=live}}

Another group calling itself Egbesu Mightier Fraternity emerged in the same month, demanding the release of Kanu and Dasuki in 14 days and that the Nigerian military leave the Gbaramatu Kingdom and stop harassing Ekpemupolo. It also threatened to blow up all offshore facilities in the region if the government did not meet its demands.

{{cite web|url=http://pulse.ng/local/egbesu-mightier-fraternity-new-militant-group-emerges-demands-release-of-kanu-dasuki-id5051736.html|title=New militant group emerges, demands release of Kanu, Dasuki|publisher=Pulse.ng|date=19 May 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915123641/http://pulse.ng/local/egbesu-mightier-fraternity-new-militant-group-emerges-demands-release-of-kanu-dasuki-id5051736.html|archive-date=15 September 2016|url-status=live}}

A group calling itself Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force emerged in early June 2016 and vowed to launch six missiles in the Niger Delta on 7 June. It further warned that it will bring down any helicopter deployed in the area and that it might shut down the Nigerian satellite orbit within a week so that telecommunications within the country would be cut off. It also demanded that the Nigerian military leave the Ijaw communities.

{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/joint-niger-delta-liberation-force-new-rebels-threaten-nigeria-missile-attack-7-june-1563488|title=Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force: New rebels threaten Nigeria missile attack on 7 June|publisher=IBTimes|date=3 June 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160809012947/http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/joint-niger-delta-liberation-force-new-rebels-threaten-nigeria-missile-attack-7-june-1563488|archive-date=9 August 2016|url-status=live}}

On 7 June, it renewed its threat claiming that it was going to target national buildings and infrastructure of oil companies in Lagos, Abuja and Kaduna, as well as all military formations in Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna and Benue.

{{cite web|url=http://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/219592/missile-launch-the-joint-niger-delta-liberation-force-jndl.html|title=Missile launch: The Joint Niger Delta Liberation Force (JNDLF) target Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna|publisher=The Nigerian Voice|date=7 June 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917062044/http://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/219592/missile-launch-the-joint-niger-delta-liberation-force-jndl.html|archive-date=17 September 2016|url-status=live}}

A dispute then developed between the militant factions as one of the groups calling itself Reformed Egbesu Boys of the Niger Delta unilaterally announced a ceasefire on 13 June. Although the group agreed with other groups over cessation of hostilities, it was opposed to demands regarding Kanu and Dasuki.

{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/06/crack-in-militants-camp-widens-2/|title=Crack in militants camp widens|publisher=Vanguard|date=13 June 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160910230401/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/06/crack-in-militants-camp-widens-2/|archive-date=10 September 2016|url-status=live}}

A group calling itself the Niger Delta Red Squad declared its existence in late June 2016. The group claimed that it had blown up two pipelines belonging to Shell in the Asa/Awarra axis and also threatened to attack major oil pipelines in Oguta Council area, as well as shutdown all oil wells in Imo State.

{{cite web|url=https://www.today.ng/news/nigeria/141093/militant-group-emerges-imo-threatens-shut-oil-facilities|title=New militant group emerges in Imo, threatens to shut down oil facilities|publisher=Today.ng|date=21 June 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914165950/https://www.today.ng/news/nigeria/141093/militant-group-emerges-imo-threatens-shut-oil-facilities|archive-date=14 September 2016|url-status=dead}}

A few days later, another group calling itself Adaka Boro Avengers emerged, threatening to destroy oil producing facilities and warned all oil companies to leave the Niger Delta within a week

{{cite web|url=https://www.today.ng/news/nigeria/141708/militant-group-oil-firms-7-day-ultimatum-leave-niger-delta|title=New militant group gives oil firms 7-day ultimatum to leave Niger Delta|publisher=Today.ng|date=23 June 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160914172123/https://www.today.ng/news/nigeria/141708/militant-group-oil-firms-7-day-ultimatum-leave-niger-delta|archive-date=14 September 2016|url-status=dead}}

In July, the group announced that it would declare an independent state on 1 August and warned all northern Nigerians to leave the region.{{cite web

|url=https://www.nigerianbulletin.com/threads/militants-order-northerners-to-vacate-niger-delta-before-august-1.217298/|title=Militants Order Northerners to Vacate Niger Delta Before August 1

|publisher=Nigerian Bulletin|date=17 July 2016|access-date=7 September 2016}} It however abandoned its bid on the same day it was supposed to declare an independent state.

{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/08/adaka-boro-avengers-abandon-bid-declare-n-delta-republic/|title=Adaka Boro Avengers abandon bid to declare N-Delta Republic|publisher=Vanguard|date=1 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160906015146/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/08/adaka-boro-avengers-abandon-bid-declare-n-delta-republic/|archive-date=6 September 2016|url-status=live}}

A group calling itself Asawana Deadly Force of Niger Delta also emerged in late June 2016 and demanded independence for the region within a few days while threatening to shut down oil production in the region if it failed to achieve its goal.

{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/asawana-deadly-force-new-militant-group-calls-independence-niger-delta-1567309|title=Asawana Deadly Force: New militant group calls for independence of Niger Delta|publisher=IBTimes|date=24 June 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913215755/http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/asawana-deadly-force-new-militant-group-calls-independence-niger-delta-1567309|archive-date=13 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 8 July, a new group called Niger Delta Revolutionary Crusaders (NDRC) bombed the Brass Creek Manifold in Bayelsa State.

{{cite web|url=http://www.otimestv.com/2016/07/breaking-new-militant-group-ndrc-bombs.html?m=1|title=BREAKING: New Militant Group, NDRC Bombs Brass Creek Manifold In Bayelsa|publisher=Oriental Times|date=8 July 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917011401/http://www.otimestv.com/2016/07/breaking-new-militant-group-ndrc-bombs.html?m=1|archive-date=17 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 13 July, the group then declared a two-week ceasefire.{{cite web

|url=http://www.nigerianeye.com/206/07/militant-group-niger-delta.html?m=1|title=Militant group, Niger Delta Revolutionary Crusaders announces two-week ceasefire|publisher=Oriental Times|date=14 July 2016|access-date=7 September 2016}}{{dead link|date=December 2016}} On 1 August, the group released a statement in which it accused northern Nigerians of plotting to Islamisise the region in order to take control of its oil.

{{cite web|url=http://pulse.ng/local/niger-delta-northerners-plotting-to-islamize-troubled-region-over-oil-militants-say-id5330400.html|title='Northerners plotting to islamize troubled region over oil,' Militants say|publisher=Pulse.ng|date=1 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915123644/http://pulse.ng/local/niger-delta-northerners-plotting-to-islamize-troubled-region-over-oil-militants-say-id5330400.html|archive-date=15 September 2016|url-status=live}}

After the new Boko Haram leader Abu Musab al-Barnawi threatened to increase attacks on Christians and destroy churches, the NDRC, on 6 August, threatened to kill Muslims and destroy mosques if Boko Haram carried out its threats.

{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201608060101.html|title=Nigeria: If Boko Haram Kills Christian, Burn Churches, We'll Slay Muslims, Raze Mosques - N-Delta Militant Group|publisher=allAfrica|date=6 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160913053128/http://allafrica.com/stories/201608060101.html|archive-date=13 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 9 August, Niger Delta Greenland Justice Mandate declared its existence and threatened to destroy refineries in Port Harcourt and Warri within 48 hours, as well as a gas plant in Otu Jeremi within a few days.

{{cite web|url=http://dailypost.ng/2016/08/09/niger-delta-another-militant-group-emerges-vows-bring-refineries-port-harcourt-warri-within-48-hours/|title=Niger Delta: Another militant group emerges, vows to bring down refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri within 48 hours|publisher=Daily Post|date=9 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917180508/http://dailypost.ng/2016/08/09/niger-delta-another-militant-group-emerges-vows-bring-refineries-port-harcourt-warri-within-48-hours|archive-date=17 September 2016|url-status=live}}

The next day, the group reportedly blew up a major oil pipeline operated by the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) in Isoko

{{cite web|url=http://dailypost.ng/2016/08/10/new-niger-delta-militant-group-greenland-blows-oil-pipeline-delta/|title=New Niger Delta militant group, Greenland blows up oil pipeline in Delta|publisher=Daily Post|date=10 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917191820/http://dailypost.ng/2016/08/10/new-niger-delta-militant-group-greenland-blows-oil-pipeline-delta|archive-date=17 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 12 August, the group warned that it would blow up more oil installations in the future.{{cite web

|url=http://www.news24.com.ng/National/News/niger-delta-militants-issue-another-deadly-warning-20160812|title=Niger Delta militants issue another deadly warning|publisher=News24|date=12 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016}} On 19 August, the group was reported to have blown up two pipelines belonging to NPDC in Delta State.

{{cite web|url=http://dailypost.ng/2016/08/19/suspected-niger-delta-militants-blow-two-npdc-pipelines-delta/|title=Suspected Niger Delta militants blow up two NPDC pipelines in Delta|publisher=Daily Post|date=19 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160821080043/http://dailypost.ng/2016/08/19/suspected-niger-delta-militants-blow-two-npdc-pipelines-delta/|archive-date=21 August 2016|url-status=live}}

In late August 2016, the NDA declared a unilateral ceasefire and agreed to negotiations with the Nigerian government.

{{cite web|url=http://www.dw.com/en/rebels-in-niger-delta-cease-attacks-on-oil-platforms-agree-to-peace-talks/a-19490906|title=Rebels in Niger Delta cease attacks on oil platforms, agree to peace talks|publisher=Deutsche Welle|date=21 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915112331/http://www.dw.com/en/rebels-in-niger-delta-cease-attacks-on-oil-platforms-agree-to-peace-talks/a-19490906|archive-date=15 September 2016|url-status=live}}

{{cite web|url=http://pulse.ng/local/niger-delta-avengers-militants-announce-ceasefire-as-peace-talk-holds-id5402512.html|title=Rebels in Niger Delta cease attacks on oil platforms, agree to peace talks|publisher=Pulse.ng|date=21 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160915125841/http://pulse.ng/local/niger-delta-avengers-militants-announce-ceasefire-as-peace-talk-holds-id5402512.html|archive-date=15 September 2016|url-status=live}}

After the declaration of a ceasefire by the Niger Delta Avengers, the Reformed Egbesu Fraternities comprising the three militants groups Egbesu Boys of the Niger Delta, Egbesu Red Water Lions and Egbesu Mightier Fraternity also announced a 60-day ceasefire.{{cite web|url=http://www.reportsafrique.com/2016/08/ndelta-militants-groups-declare-ceasefire/|title=N'Delta Militants: More Groups Declare Ceasefire|publisher=Reports Afrique News|date=22 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171012033532/http://www.reportsafrique.com/2016/08/ndelta-militants-groups-declare-ceasefire/|archive-date=12 October 2017|url-status=dead}}

Nigeria's Army launched "Operation Crocodile Smile" in late August to get rid of all criminal activities in Niger Delta. On 26 September, five militants were killed in clashes while 23 were arrested.

{{cite web|url=http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/209399-nigerian-army-launches-niger-delta-offensive-kills-5-militants.html|title=Nigerian Army launches Niger Delta offensive, kills '5 militants'|publisher=Premium Times|date=27 August 2016|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160926083422/http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/209399-nigerian-army-launches-niger-delta-offensive-kills-5-militants.html|archive-date=26 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 30 August, NDGJM blew up the Ogor-Oteri oil pipeline in the Delta state and declared the launch of "Operation Crocodile Tears" in response to the military's operation.

{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/948223-breaking-news-militants-blow-another-npdc-facility-launch-operation-crocodile-tears.html|title=JUST IN: Militants strike again, blow up NPDC facility|publisher=Naij|date=30 August 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160831145329/https://www.naij.com/948223-breaking-news-militants-blow-another-npdc-facility-launch-operation-crocodile-tears.html|archive-date=31 August 2016|url-status=live}}

On 1 September, the Nigerian Army captured Gabriel Ogbudje, a supposed ex-militant who they claimed had now become leader of a new militant group Otugas Fire Force.

{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201609010545.html|title=Nigeria: Operation Crocodile Smile - Troops Arrest East-West Way Robbers|publisher=allAfrica|date=1 September 2016|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161001200915/http://allafrica.com/stories/201609010545.html|archive-date=1 October 2016|url-status=live}}

14 oil workers and their driver on their way to Port Harcourt were kidnapped by unknown gunmen on 2 September after the vehicle transporting them was hijacked on Omoku-Elele road.{{cite web

|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSKCN1190HE|title=Nigerian gunmen kidnap 14 local oil workers and driver in southern Rivers state|publisher=Reuters|date=3 September 2016|access-date=20 September 2016}}

On 4 September, NDGJM claimed it had rigged all the marked oil and gas facilities with explosives and warned residents living nearby to evacuate.

{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/955371-militants-set-to-bomb-more-oil-facilities-as-it-prepare-to-attack-army.html|title=Militants tell residents to vacate oil facilities|publisher=Naij|date=4 September 2016|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160906160826/https://www.naij.com/955371-militants-set-to-bomb-more-oil-facilities-as-it-prepare-to-attack-army.html|archive-date=6 September 2016|url-status=live}}

Chief of Army Staff Tukur Yusuf Buratai officially launched the operation on 5 September.{{cite web|url=http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/buratai-flags-off-operation-crocodile-smile/161548.html|title=Buratai flags off 'operation crocodile smile'|author=Seun Opejobipublisher=Daily Post (Nigeria)|date=5 September 2016|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160927164746/http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/news/general/buratai-flags-off-operation-crocodile-smile/161548.html|archive-date=27 September 2016|url-status=dead}} Niger Delta Avengers mocked the operation on 8 September claiming 20 soldiers were killed in it and also claimed that the Nigerian military was harassing citizens of Niger Delta.

{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201609090107.html|title=Nigeria: Avengers Claim 20 Soldiers Murdered During Military Operations in Niger Delta|publisher=allAfrica|date=8 September 2016|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160910131349/http://allafrica.com/stories/201609090107.html|archive-date=10 September 2016|url-status=live}}

The operation concluded on 11 September.

{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/nigerian-army-concludes-operation-crocodile-smile-drill-bayelsa-creeks/|title=Nigerian Army concludes 'Operation Crocodile Smile' drill in Bayelsa creeks|publisher=Vanguard|date=11 September 2016|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160920135155/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/nigerian-army-concludes-operation-crocodile-smile-drill-bayelsa-creeks/|archive-date=20 September 2016|url-status=live}}

During the operation, 23 militants were killed while 38 militant camps, 91 illegal refineries and bunkering sites were destroyed during the operation.

{{cite web|url=http://thenationonlineng.net/operation-crocodile-smile-kills-23-militants/|title=23 militants killed in 'Operation Crocodile Smile' – Military|author=Chris Oji|publisher=The Nation|date=18 September 2016|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921085824/http://thenationonlineng.net/operation-crocodile-smile-kills-23-militants/|archive-date=21 September 2016|url-status=live}}

The oil workers kidnapped in early September were released by 18 September after the police engaged in a shootout with the kidnappers.

{{cite web|url=http://www.thebreakingtimes.com/niger-delta-greenland-justice-mandate-blows-up-pipeline-in-delta/|title=Niger Delta Greenland Justice Mandate Blows Up Pipeline in Delta|publisher=The Breaking Times|date=13 September 2016|access-date=20 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921083053/http://www.thebreakingtimes.com/niger-delta-greenland-justice-mandate-blows-up-pipeline-in-delta/|archive-date=21 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 13 September, NDGJM stated they had blown up the Afiesere-Iwhrenene pipeline belonging to NPDC in Ughelli North. On 19 September, the group stated they had blown up a crude oil pipeline belonging to NPDC near Ekuigbo in Ughelli North. On 20 September, Abraham Suru, one of the suspected leaders of NDA was arrested.{{cite web|url=http://dailypost.ng/2016/09/22/el-rufai-complete-n69bn-zaria-water-project-next-july/|title=Niger Delta Avengers' commander, Gabon arrested in Sapele|author=Ameh Conrade Godwin|publisher=Daily Post (Nigeria)|date=22 September 2016|access-date=30 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160927222643/http://dailypost.ng/2016/09/22/el-rufai-complete-n69bn-zaria-water-project-next-july/|archive-date=27 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 24 September, Niger Delta Avengers claimed they had blown up the Bonny pipeline.{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/niger-delta-avengers-bomb-bonny-crude-export-line/|title=Niger Delta Avengers bomb Bonny crude export line|publisher=Vanguard (Nigeria)|date=24 September 2016|access-date=30 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160929091112/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/niger-delta-avengers-bomb-bonny-crude-export-line/|archive-date=29 September 2016|url-status=live}} On 27 September, a militant group calling itself Niger Delta Volunteers (NDV) warned the government that it will cripple all its infrastructure that generated income, describing the bombing by Avengers on Bonny pipeline as a "child's play". It also warned oil companies to evacuate their staff and suspend their operations, adding that their next strike will be deadly.

{{cite web|url=http://pulse.ng/local/niger-delta-we-will-cripple-nigeria-militants-say-id5539400.html|title=We will cripple Nigeria – Militants say|author=Chikba Ebuzor|publisher=Pusle.ng|date=27 September 2016|access-date=30 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161001061636/http://pulse.ng/local/niger-delta-we-will-cripple-nigeria-militants-say-id5539400.html|archive-date=1 October 2016|url-status=live}}

Meanwhile, Niger Delta Justice Defence Group (NDJDG) blew up an oil pipeline in Gokana.{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/984409-breaking-niger-delta-militants-sent-heavy-blast-warns-president-buhari.html|title=Breaking: Niger Delta militants blow up another pipeline|author=Jasmine Buari|publisher=NAIJ|date=27 September 2016|access-date=30 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160928164826/https://www.naij.com/984409-breaking-niger-delta-militants-sent-heavy-blast-warns-president-buhari.html|archive-date=28 September 2016|url-status=live}} On 28 September, NDJDG warned Buhari that they will destroy any national asset he tries to sell.{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/985692-breaking-niger-delta-militants-vow-buhari-sells-national-assets.html|title=BREAKING: Niger Delta militants issue strong warning to Buhari|author=Jasmine Buari|publisher=NAIJ|date=28 September 2016|access-date=30 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160929145634/https://www.naij.com/985692-breaking-niger-delta-militants-vow-buhari-sells-national-assets.html|archive-date=29 September 2016|url-status=live}} Meanwhile, a militant was killed in clashes between NDA and Imo Security Network in Owerri.

{{cite web|url=http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/militants-on-rampage-in-owerri/|title=Niger Delta Avengers on rampage in Owerri|publisher=Vanguard (Nigeria)|date=28 September 2016|access-date=30 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160929145320/http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/09/militants-on-rampage-in-owerri/|archive-date=29 September 2016|url-status=live}}

On 29 September, NDGJM claimed it had blown up the Unenurhie-Evwreni pipeline belonging to the NPDC.{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/idUSKCN11Z0XE|title=Nigerian militant group claims attack on oil pipeline in Niger Delta|author=Tife Owolabi|publisher=Reuters|date=29 September 2016|access-date=30 September 2016}}

On 9 November, Niger Delta Avengers said it was behind an attack on Shell's Forçados crude pipeline a day earlier.{{cite web|url=https://www.yahoo.com/news/nigerian-militant-group-says-attacked-forcados-crude-pipeline-213811591--finance.html|title=Nigerian militant group says it attacked Forcados crude pipeline|date=9 November 2016 |access-date=10 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161110190036/https://www.yahoo.com/news/nigerian-militant-group-says-attacked-forcados-crude-pipeline-213811591--finance.html|archive-date=10 November 2016|url-status=live}}

MEND had condemned the ensuing militancy in its early days.{{cite web|url=http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/203883-mend-breaks-silence-tackles-niger-delta-avengers.html|title=MEND breaks silence, tackles 'Niger Delta Avengers'|date=22 May 2016|publisher=Premium Times Nigeria|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160831102510/http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/203883-mend-breaks-silence-tackles-niger-delta-avengers.html|archive-date=31 August 2016|url-status=live}} However, by September it abandoned the negotiating position with the government and sought a unified voice for the Niger Delta, even proposing to work with the NDA.{{cite web|url=https://www.naij.com/946349-watching-edwin-clark-mend-sends-message-niger-delta-avengers.html|title=MEND Agrees to work with Niger Delta Avengers, Edwin Clark|first=Omotayo|last=Yusuf|date=29 August 2016 |publisher=NAIJ.COM|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160830172943/https://www.naij.com/946349-watching-edwin-clark-mend-sends-message-niger-delta-avengers.html|archive-date=30 August 2016|url-status=live}}

The NDA announced its intention for a declaration of independence on 1 October, which gained the support of IPOB despite the group saying it was unaffiliated with the former as Powerful said: "We have nothing to do with MEND, but our philosophy aligns with that of Niger Delta Avengers who bravely called for the release of our leader and had maintained it till date. Avengers and IPOB are one in pursuit of freedom for all the peoples of Biafra. IPOB is in total support of the proposed independence declaration proposed by Avengers on the 1st of October."{{cite web|url=https://newsbiafra.com/ipob-backs-avengers-oct-1-breakup-threat/|title=IPOB backs Avengers' Oct 1 breakup threat|last=heavenson|date=27 August 2016|publisher=News Biafra|access-date=7 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160916102336/https://newsbiafra.com/ipob-backs-avengers-oct-1-breakup-threat/|archive-date=16 September 2016|url-status=dead}} However, later IPOB and the Renegade Indigenous People of Biafra (RENIPOB), a faction from the Kanu-led IPOB, decided to re-unite and would surrender to the Nigerian government on 15 January 2017. As a consequence its intention for the burning of the flag of Biafra on 1 October was then replaced by an intention of surrender to the government.{{Cite web|title=Breakaway IPOB factions pick Okah to surrender Biafran flag to Nigeria|url=https://www.thecable.ng/breakaway-ipob-factions-pick-okah-surrender-biafra-flag-nigeria|date=2016-09-02|website=TheCable|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-25}}

Following Kanu's arrest, IPOB spokesman, Comrade Emma Powerful said of Nigeria that it was a "contraption done by the former British colonialists which is no longer working, hence the quest of the Biafrans to opt out of the incompatible marriage – the 1914 Amalgamation."{{Cite web|url=https://www.pressreader.com/nigeria/thisday/20160711/281496455616444|title=Nigeria's Unity Only Sustainable by Consent of all Ethnic Nationalities, Afenifere, IPOB insist|date=11 July 2016|via=PressReader|access-date=2020-05-25}}

{{reflist|30em|refs=

{{cite news |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-36301835 |title=Nigeria arrests 'Avengers' oil militants |date=16 May 2016 |work=BBC News Online |access-date=2016-05-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160516120948/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-36301835 |archive-date=2016-05-16 |url-status=live}}

{{cite web |url=http://dailypost.ng/2016/09/19/militants-blow-major-crude-oil-pipeline-delta/ |title=Militants blow up major crude oil pipeline in Delta |last=Seun |first=Opejobi |publisher=Daily Post (Nigeria) |date=2016-09-19 |access-date=2016-09-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160920185906/http://dailypost.ng/2016/09/19/militants-blow-major-crude-oil-pipeline-delta/ |archive-date=2016-09-20 |url-status=live}}

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