The Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders have called on the government to take decisive action over the killing of 17 soldiers in Okuama, Delta State.
The Spokesperson of the group, Collins Idowu while addressing journalists on Thursday, reiterated the call for a critical review of pipeline surveillance contract.
Idowu maintained that such contracts should be allowed to be handled by the military who are experienced, instead of allowing a private firm to be in charge of such sensitive national assets.
“In light of the tragic incident that resulted in the loss of 17 brave soldiers in Okuama, Delta State, the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders gathered today for an urgent press conference.
“Firstly, we express our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and comrades of the 17 valiant soldiers who were mercilessly slain. Their sacrifice does not go unnoticed, and in their memory, we stand in solidarity with the Nigerian Army.
“We are committed to providing any assistance necessary, including intelligence, to apprehend those responsible for this heinous act and bring them to justice.
“We urgently draw the attention of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, to 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 entrusted security of our 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”, the group said.
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Idowu further noted that they are cognizant 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.
He said 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.
“President Tinubu, your leadership has been marked by numerous commendable initiatives, and your dedication to the nation’s progress is well recognized.
“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”, he added.
TheWitness
