Former Niger Delta militant leader and ex-commander of the defunct Niger Delta People’s Volunteer Force, Mujahid Asari-Dokubo, has announced a dramatic political shift—cutting ties with Yoruba politicians and aligning fully with Northern power blocs.
In a video released on social media Monday, Asari-Dokubo accused Yoruba leaders of betrayal, claiming they turned their backs on the Ijaw people despite past solidarity and sacrifices.
“The Yorubas have betrayed us. After all we did, they turned their backs on us,” he said, visibly agitated.
He lamented that past political efforts by the Ijaw to uphold southern unity were not only unreciprocated but disrespected.
Recalling moments in electoral and governance history, Asari expressed regret that the South-West failed to honour long-standing pacts with Niger Delta leaders, which he said were rooted in mutual respect and shared struggle.
“I now understand our elders were not wrong to form alliances with the North. As young men, we will now carry that baton forward,” he declared.
The former militant vowed to work “tirelessly” with Northern leaders, citing what he called “consistency, loyalty, and respect” as traits lacking in recent southern partnerships—especially with Yoruba politicians.
“From this day, I will work, work, work with the North to crush every opposition. Loyalty must be met with loyalty.”
Asari-Dokubo’s statement adds to the growing list of political realignments and ideological shifts shaping Nigeria’s evolving power dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections.
