MEND has threatened to resume attacks on oil facilities in the Niger Delta and kidnapping of foreigners, ending a four-month ceasefire. The threat follows the arrest of a factional leader of MEND, Henry Okah, in Angola on arms trafficking.

“With effect from 12 midnight today, Sunday September 23, 2007, we will commence attacks on installations and abduction of expatriates,” MEND said in an e-mailed statement.

The e-mail accused the Nigerian government of trying to divide and rule the inhabitants of the delta, and attempting to bribe militants and leaders from the region. “We will not sit back and allow our birthright to be exchanged for a bowl of porridge,” the e-mail continued.