Prominent Niger Delta stakeholders, led by Leader Ebi John and co-signed by Victor Occasion, Richman Davidson, and Prince Will Kotingo, have issued a strong response to recent calls for the decentralization of pipeline protection contracts in Nigeria.
The statement follows a public post by Owous Owoupele and an accompanying online publication by aggrieved individuals seeking to discredit the current oil pipeline security framework.
According to the leaders, the intervention is aimed at correcting misleading narratives and presenting verified facts to the public.
Contracts Are Awarded on Performance, Not Pressure
They emphasized that oil pipeline protection contracts in Nigeria are not awarded based on agitation, sentiment, or pressure from interest groups. Rather, decisions are made by the Federal Government under the leadership of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, guided by performance, operational capacity, transparency, and measurable outcomes.
Tangible Gains Under Current Security Structure
The leaders highlighted that since the engagement of the existing surveillance architecture — including Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited — the country has recorded:
A significant reduction in oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal bunkering
Improved coastal and maritime security, with sea piracy largely curtailed
Increased crude oil production and renewed investor confidence
Measurable growth in national revenue
“These are verifiable outcomes,” the statement noted, dismissing claims that the current arrangement is a “grave error” as misleading and unfounded.
Governance Requires Results, Not Appeasement
The leaders stressed that governance is about sustaining systems that work in the national interest, not appeasing pressure groups. While acknowledging the right of Niger Delta stakeholders to express opinions, they maintained that contracts must remain anchored on competence, accountability, and proven performance.
Rule of Law Over Online Sensationalism
They further advised that allegations of wrongdoing should be addressed through lawful judicial processes, rather than online campaigns designed to undermine
established institutions.
Warning Against Fragmentation
The statement cautioned that fragmenting pipeline security across competing interests could weaken coordination and reverse the gains already achieved. Stability, continuity, and cooperation, they argued, are critical for sustained progress in the oil sector.
Call for Unity and Responsible Engagement
Concluding, the leaders described their publication as a firm but responsible response to attempts at distorting facts, urging all stakeholders to prioritize stability, collaboration, and forward-looking engagement over divisive narratives driven by personal grievances.
“The Niger Delta deserves progress built on facts and results — not misinformation,” the statement concluded.
