There has been a threat from the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) on South Africa’s investments, including telecoms firm MTN, in the Niger Delta, because of the trial of its leader in Johannesburg.

MEND said in an e-mail statement "Our decision to attack South African investments in the Niger Delta is directly related to the conduct of President (Jacob) Zuma regarding the continued incarceration in South Africa of Henry Okah."

As we can recall, Okah is facing trial in South Africa on charges that he orchestrated twin car bombings — which killed 12 people in Abuja on October 1, 2010 — from his home in Johannesburg. He has denied the charges.

The statement said: "Concerning attacks on MTN’s related infrastructure, MEND will issue shortly, a set of guidelines to MTN employees, customers and owners of properties accommodating MTN-related communication equipment.

"These guidelines are intended to minimise civilian casualties and forestall the unnecessary destruction of privately owned properties accommodating MTN equipment.

"Our decision to attack South African investments in the Niger Delta is directly related to the conduct of President Jacob Zuma, regarding the continued incarceration in South Africa of Henry Okah.

"What is happening in South Africa is a travesty of justice, which must be condemned by all. What country on earth, besides Nigeria, will so easily surrender its right to try someone it accuses of masterminding a bombing on its National Day?

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