High Chief Ambassador Sobomabo Jackrich, the National Leader of the Simplicity Movement, has publicly disassociated himself and his affiliated organizations from the Niger Delta Rescue Movement, a group that recently surfaced in an online video threatening to resume hostilities over the 48-hour ultimatum issued to Governor Siminialayi Fubara by the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly.
In a strongly worded press statement, Jackrich expressed deep concern over the name of the group, which bears a striking resemblance to his political party, the National Rescue Movement (NRM). He categorically stated that NRM is a law-abiding political organization committed to democratic principles and has no affiliation with any militant group.
He also addressed speculations linking the group to Tantita Security Services. Jackrich noted that while an individual in the video appeared to be dressed in an outfit similar to that of Tantita personnel, the security firm under his leadership is dedicated to protecting oil installations and securing waterways in accordance with legal mandates. He emphasized that neither Tantita Security nor himself has any involvement or association with the said militia group.
As a former leader of the now-defunct Niger Delta Liberation Force (NDLF), Jackrich also made it clear that the NDLF is under the Presidential Amnesty Programme and is no longer engaged in militant activities. He warned against any attempt to falsely link the group to criminality, stating that the resemblance in names is a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.
Jackrich further described the video as part of a broader effort to frame him and other supporters of Governor Fubara. He alleged that certain political figures are determined to use security agencies to target and eliminate opposition ahead of the forthcoming local government elections.
He recalled a similar incident on April 8, 2024, when the military invaded his home, destroyed his property, and killed two of his workers. Despite that attack, nothing incriminating was found against him, reinforcing his belief that these tactics are politically motivated.
Reaffirming his innocence, Jackrich insisted that his support for Governor Fubara should not be criminalized or turned into an offense. He stressed his constitutional right to political association and urged security agencies to remain vigilant against attempts to manipulate them for political gains.
Calling on Rivers people to remain peaceful and steadfast, Jackrich expressed confidence that truth and justice would ultimately prevail.
