The controversy over pipeline surveillance contract in the Niger Delta deepened on Monday with a human rights organization asking the Federal Government to stop giving the business to questionable characters.
During a protest which held at the Headquarters of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Civil Society Organization Network of Nigeria (CSONN) calls for a review of pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta.
Leader of the protesters numbering over 200 and chairman of CSONN, Collins Eshiofeh, told Journalists that surveillance contracts are being awarded to individuals and entities with a history of militant activity against the Nigerian state.
He said, “The Civil Society Organization Network Groups in Nigeria urgently addresses the nation to express grave concerns over the Federal Government’s approach to pipeline security in the Niger Delta.
“Despite commendations to the Nigerian Navy and President Bola Tinubu for recent efforts to curb oil theft, the CSONN is alarmed by the ongoing environmental and security crises affecting local communities, exacerbated by questionable pipeline surveillance contracts.
“Recent developments highlight a disturbing trend: surveillance contracts are being awarded to individuals and entities with a history of militant activity against the Nigerian state. Such decisions not only compromise national security but also risk empowering these groups to further arm themselves, thereby perpetuating violence and instability in a region already beset by challenges.
“The shocking attack in Okauma village, resulting in the tragic loss of 17 soldiers, serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of arming those with a history of violence. The Coalition insists that entrusting pipeline security to those with militant backgrounds undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty and international reputation, particularly within OPEC.
“President Tinubu is urged to intervene and direct the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to cease the award of surveillance contracts to companies led by individuals of questionable character, such as Tantita Ltd and Government Ekpemupolo (aka Tompolo). The CSONN questions the interests that NNPCL top management may have in these entities and their propensity to assign national asset protection to known militants.
“By continuing this practice, the Nigerian state appears to be yielding to the demands of militants, rather than upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of its citizens. This capitulation threatens to erode public confidence and the authority of the state.
“The Civil Society Organization Network of Nigeria calls upon President Tinubu to: Review and revoke pipeline surveillance contracts currently held by former militants to prevent the potential misuse of such funds for arms proliferation.
“Investigate the proliferation of arms in the Niger Delta, including the role of armed militants in the importation of illegal weapons.
“Ensure that the Nigerian Military and pipeline protection companies operate with the utmost professionalism and are not complicit in arms trafficking.”
According to him, the CSSON stands firm as a watchdog of society, vowing not to relent until these critical issues are addressed.
“It is time for the Nigerian government to take decisive action to safeguard the nation’s assets, restore confidence in its security apparatus, and maintain its standing in the international community”, Eshiofeh said.
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