A fresh war of words has erupted in the Niger Delta following explosive allegations of betrayal leveled against Senior High Chief Bibopere Ajube, popularly known as “Shoot at Sight,” by former Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) President, Udengs Eradiri.
In a strongly worded response, Ajube dismissed the claims as misleading and lacking depth, insisting that his stance on decentralizing pipeline and oil & gas facility contracts is rooted in justice, fairness, and long-term regional stability—not disloyalty to Niger Delta leader Government Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo.
Ajube emphasized that his relationship with Tompolo goes beyond blind allegiance, recalling moments during the height of militancy when he risked his life to ensure Tompolo’s safety. He cited the destruction of Camp 5 and subsequent operations as defining periods where loyalty was demonstrated through action, not rhetoric.
“I acted out of conscience then, and I still do today,” Ajube declared, rejecting suggestions that his current position amounts to betrayal.
The former militant leader also recounted his decision during the administration of Muhammadu Buhari to submit himself to investigations by the EFCC, rather than resort to violence like some others. He described how he was allegedly framed for pipeline vandalism and declared wanted, a move he believes was intended to provoke a return to armed conflict.
Instead, Ajube said he chose peace and lawful engagement, a decision he claims led to sustained attacks, blackmail, and isolation—even from individuals within Tompolo’s inner circle.
In a striking revelation, Ajube disclosed his role in facilitating dialogue between Tompolo’s camp and the Federal Government in 2016, including arranging a meeting involving key stakeholders and security officials aimed at resolving tensions.
He further revealed that he turned down participation in lucrative pipeline surveillance contracts under the Presidential Amnesty Programme because Tompolo and others were excluded at the time—a move he described as a sacrifice in the interest of equity.
“I did not reject the opportunity because I lacked capacity, but because I believe in fairness,” he said, challenging Eradiri to present a similar example of selflessness.
Ajube also raised alarm over alleged assassination attempts on his life since 2015, linking them to elements within the Gbaramatu axis, while maintaining that he refused to retaliate violently.
Addressing accusations of personal enrichment, Ajube admitted benefiting from Amnesty Programme contracts but defended his record, stating that he invested his earnings into sustainable ventures, building what he described as a “global brand.”
The core of the dispute centers on Ajube’s advocacy for decentralizing control of oil infrastructure contracts in the Niger Delta—a position he argues is necessary to prevent excessive concentration of power and to promote accountability, security stability, and inclusive economic growth.
“Decentralization is not betrayal—it is foresight,” he stated, warning that allowing a few individuals to dominate both economic and security structures could destabilize the region.
He concluded by reaffirming his loyalty to Tompolo, insisting that his commitment remains “firm and demonstrable,” and vowed to provide further evidence if necessary to set the record straight.
The escalating exchange between both figures has sparked debate across the Niger Delta, with observers warning that the controversy could deepen divisions among former agitators and political stakeholders in the region.Politics
