The National Coalition of Urhobo Ex-Agitators (NCE-A) has called on relevant authorities to ensure transparency, fairness, and due process in the award of oil pipeline surveillance contracts in Urhobo communities across the Niger Delta.
The coalition, which made its position known after a meeting held in Asaba, Delta State, over the weekend, stressed that qualified former agitators should be given priority consideration in line with the objectives of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the coalition’s leader, Augustine Akpofure, expressed concerns over reports alleging that the Executive Director of Business Development at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Hon. Stella Okotete, may be seeking to secure the pipeline surveillance contract covering parts of Urhobo land.
Akpofure stated that the coalition believes such contracts should primarily benefit ex-agitators and community stakeholders who have contributed significantly to the promotion of peace and the protection of critical oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta region.
According to him, the Presidential Amnesty Programme was established to provide economic opportunities for former agitators, facilitate their reintegration into society, and sustain peace in oil-producing communities.
“The objectives of the amnesty programme should not be undermined. Those who have made sacrifices for the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the region deserve to be considered in opportunities created within the oil and gas sector,” Akpofure said.
The coalition appealed to Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, as well as other stakeholders involved in the contract award process, to safeguard the interests of Urhobo youths and former agitators.
It maintained that any decision concerning the surveillance contract should be guided by fairness, inclusiveness, and the need to preserve peace and stability in host communities.
The group further urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, and the Office of the National Security Adviser to give adequate consideration to individuals and groups with proven experience and strong community relationships in the management of pipeline surveillance operations.
The coalition also called for a review of existing arrangements where necessary to ensure equitable representation of local stakeholders in surveillance activities across Urhobo territories.
While reiterating its opposition to any move it believes could sideline former agitators, the coalition emphasized that its intervention was motivated by a desire to promote peace, protect community interests, and sustain the gains of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.
The group pledged to continue engaging relevant authorities through lawful and peaceful means and expressed confidence that the final decision on the surveillance contract would be made in the best interest of the Niger Delta region, its communities, and national security.
