Group Calls for Review of N’Delta Pipeline Surveillance Contracts

In the wake of a tragic incident in Okuama, Delta State, where 17 soldiers lost their lives, the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders have called on the federal government to reassess the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to a private firm, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, insisting that such responsibility should be vested in the military.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja yesterday, the group through its spokesman, Collins

Idowu, called on President Bola Tinubu to thoroughly review the current arrangement and not entrust the security of oil infrastructure to individuals with a history of militancy.

Idowu recalled the controversial circumstances surrounding the contracts which include its initial non-award by President Muhammadu Buhari, raising suspicions of conflicts of interest involving stakeholders in Tantita.

Idowu further noted that the group was cognisant of the complex economic landscape of Nigeria and firmly believe that the surveillance of the oil pipelines, particularly within the Niger Delta and Delta State, should not be relegated to entities with ‘questionable’ backgrounds.

“Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders are urging President Bola Tinubu, to cancel the current pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. With respect to national security and the integrity of our nation's economy, we implore the president to critically reassess this contract.

“The security of oil infrastructure cannot, by any means, be placed in the hands of individuals with a history of militancy, which poses a significant threat to the stability of Nigeria's economic backbone.

“We are cognisant of the complex economic landscape of Nigeria and firmly believe that the surveillance of our oil pipelines, particularly within the Niger Delta and Delta State, should not be relegated to entities with questionable backgrounds.

“It is imperative to highlight that the initial non-award of this contract by President Muhammadu Buhari, only to be later granted under controversial circumstances, suggests potential conflicts of interest involving stakeholders in Tantita,” je said.

The group opined that the leadership of Tinubu has been marked by numerous commendable initiatives, and his dedication to the nation's progress is well recognised.

“However, we are compelled to question the prudence of entrusting our critical economic assets to those who have previously orchestrated disruptions in the sector.

“The potential for regression is immense if the security measures around our oil pipelines are perceived as being in the hands of militants, which could result in catastrophic consequences for future governmental transitions.

“We conclude this conference with a fervent plea to President Tinubu: Protect our nation's future and economic stability. Your decisive action in this matter is not only anticipated but necessary for the continued advancement of Nigeria.” it said.