From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
First Phase Ex-Militant Leaders, in collaboration with the Foundation for Heritage Advancement and Development in Niger Delta (FHADND), has expressed strong opposition to decentralizing the pipeline surveillance and security contract currently handled by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
In a statement in Port Harcourt, Rivers State signed by Mnr. Ezekiel Akpasibewei, Coordinator, First Phase Ex-amnesty Leaders and Barr. Francis Wainwei, Executive Director, (FHADND) as well as other Ex-millitant Leaders from the nine states of Niger Delta, noted that those glamouring for decentralization of the pipeline surveillance contracts do not mean well for the nation.
The group further noted that such move may be counterproductive and may likely create operational confusion, encourage rivalry among multiple actors, weaken accountability, undermine coordination and efficiency and create security gaps that criminal elements may exploit
The group commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the renewal of the contract, citing its stabilizing impact on the Niger Delta region.
They argued that decentralization would be premature, dangerous, and potentially counterproductive, benefiting only oil thieves, pipeline vandals, and illegal bunkerers
According to the group, the current surveillance framework has produced visible results, including improved field coordination, stronger local intelligence gathering, and more effective responses to pipeline threats. Decentralization could create operational confusion, encourage rivalry among actors, and weaken accountability.
The ex-militant leaders acknowledged High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo)’s stabilizing role and operational significance in the success of the present framework.
They urged the Federal Government to prioritize national interest, continuity, and effectiveness over political pressure or sectional demands.
They recommended the retention of the current operational framework under Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, strengthening of institutional oversight and performance monitoring enhanced collaboration among surveillance operators security agencies, and host communities,.
Amongst other recommendations include greater deployment of modern surveillance technology and intelligence tools and sustained community participation in protecting strategic oil assets and preserving the Niger Delta environment
The group assured President Tinubu of overwhelming support in the 2027 presidential election, citing his approval of the contract renewal as a boost to the Niger Delta region.
