9 Filipinos and 5 Nigerians released Saturday , 4 Ukrainians released Sunday . Nigeria 's military started clearing the western Niger Delta region last week . Fighting against militants demanding better distribution of Nigeria 's oil wealth . MEND has threatened to blockade oil vessels , and has warned oil companies in the region to leave and `` cease oil production until further notice . '' Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta has declared ` ` all - out war ''
9 Filipinos and 5 Nigerians released Saturday , 4 Ukrainians released Sunday . Nigeria 's military started clearing the western Niger Delta region last week . Fighting against militants demanding better distribution of Nigeria 's oil wealth . Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta has declared ` ` all - out war ''