Pipeline Surveillance: Warri Indigenes Demand Fairness in Contract Awards

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

The Itsekiri Community in Warri, Delta State, has urged the federal government to ensure fairness and transparency in awarding pipeline surveillance contracts, alleging marginalisation.

In a petition addressed to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the community called for an immediate review of contracts already awarded in their area.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Chairman of the Warri Indigenous People Movement, Hon. Kingsley Tenumah, and General Secretary, Comrade Monoyo Edon, criticised the current contract process. They said it ignores the rights of the Itsekiri people as a host community.

The leaders argued that the process goes against the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which guarantees host communities certain rights and benefits, including involvement in oil-related activities.

“We urge the government to stop all contract awards that do not consider the interests of host communities. There must be a fair and transparent process that ensures equity and inclusion,” they said.

They also pointed out that despite their significant contributions to the national economy, the Itsekiri community continues to be excluded from key decisions that affect them directly.

“Our community has played a major role in the nation’s economy, yet we are being left out of crucial decisions,” the petition stated.

The leaders warned that if their concerns are not addressed within seven days, the community may resort to peaceful protests. However, they expressed confidence in the NSA’s ability to resolve the matter fairly.

“Your Excellency, we trust in the NSA’s neutrality and integrity. We believe you will treat this issue with the fairness and seriousness it deserves,” they said.

This comes at a time of rising tension in oil-producing areas of Nigeria, where communities have long complained of being marginalised and excluded from the benefits of oil wealth.