‘My Life Is in Danger’ — Journalist Fejiro Oliver Alleges Threats After Pipeline Surveillance Report, Faces Bench Warrant

Abuja-based reporter says he was attacked and warned to stop his investigation as Delta magistrate orders his arrest and that of his sureties.

An Abuja-based journalist, Fejiro Oliver, says he is living in fear after receiving what he describes as repeated threats to his life following a report he published on pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta.

Oliver’s claims come as a Magistrate Court in Asaba, Delta State, issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he failed to appear in court, citing security concerns through his lawyers.

Magistrate Edith Nkechi Anumadu of Court 3 ordered the warrant and further directed that Oliver’s sureties be arrested. This marks the second time in recent months that a Delta court has issued such an order against the journalist. In December 2025, another magistrate in Asaba had similarly issued a warrant after Oliver raised concerns about threats to his safety.

‘Attacked in My Office’

Speaking to journalists on Thursday from what he described as a place of hiding, Oliver said the threats began after he wrote about pipeline surveillance contracts allegedly being handled by three major companies owned by individuals from the same ethnic group.

“My life has been in danger, and there has been a series of threats, and now the attack on my life and property,” he said.

Oliver alleged that unknown persons attacked him late at night while he was working in his office.

“I was attacked by unknown persons, who inflicted injuries on my head and right elbow. God saved my life. These criminal elements carted away our computers, phones, camera and several documents,” he claimed.

He said he had also received messages warning him to stop his investigation or face severe consequences.

Court Orders and Legal Battle

The magistrate’s decision to issue a bench warrant followed Oliver’s absence from court, with his legal representatives informing the court that his non-appearance was due to security threats.

The court also ordered the arrest of his sureties, escalating the legal pressure on the journalist.

Details of the charges against Oliver were not immediately clear, but the case is linked to his reporting on pipeline surveillance operations in the Niger Delta.

Controversy Over Pipeline Contracts

Oliver maintains that his report focused on the concentration of pipeline surveillance contracts in the hands of a few companies and raised questions about equity in the management of oil infrastructure across communities.

“My position is that if this contract for pipeline surveillance must continue, let every tribe manage and handle pipelines that pass through their localities and areas,” he said.

He insisted he had done nothing wrong and would not be silenced by intimidation.

“No matter the threats and attacks, I will never give up,” Oliver added.

The allegations add to growing concerns among media rights advocates over the safety of journalists reporting on sensitive issues linked to oil, security, and regional interests in the Niger Delta.