The debate surrounding pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta has taken a more serious turn following strong remarks by former militant leader Asari Dokubo, who has warned that key stakeholders in the region must not be underestimated or disrespected in the ongoing discussions over oil pipeline security.
Dokubo made the remarks during an interview with Gbaramatu Voice, where he emphasized that several influential leaders in the Niger Delta remain critical to the stability of the region and their voices must be taken seriously.
Warning Against Looking Down on Key Stakeholders
In the interview, Dokubo specifically mentioned notable figures such as Egbema I, Bibopere Ajube popularly known as Shoot-at-Sight, and Ebikabowei Victor-Ben (Boyloaf) as individuals whose influence across the creeks and communities of the Niger Delta cannot be ignored.
According to him, these men are critical stakeholders whose opinions carry enormous weight among youths and ex-agitators in the region.
Dokubo warned that dismissing their positions or treating them with disregard could create unnecessary tension within the oil-producing communities.
He noted that even if these leaders themselves decide not to take any action, others who align with their views may react in ways that could escalate tensions in the region.
Host Communities Should Secure Their Pipelines
Beyond the warning, Dokubo strongly reiterated that pipeline surveillance contracts should be handled primarily by contractors from host communities where the pipelines are located.
He argued that allowing outsiders to control security operations in areas they are unfamiliar with undermines the interests of local communities and contradicts the spirit of the Petroleum Industry Act, which recognizes the role of host communities in the protection of oil infrastructure.
According to Dokubo, local residents understand the geography of the creeks, the communities, and the networks operating within them far better than external contractors.
For this reason, he insisted that those who live along the pipeline corridors should be entrusted with the responsibility of protecting them.
Respect for Territorial Boundaries
Dokubo also stressed the importance of maintaining respect among prominent Niger Delta leaders involved in pipeline security operations.
In a significant remark, he revealed that he would personally decline any pipeline surveillance contract offered to him in territories associated with Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo).
According to him, accepting such an arrangement would be wrong and could generate unnecessary rivalry among stakeholders who have historically played roles in maintaining peace in the Niger Delta.
The Wider Pipeline Security Debate
The comments come amid ongoing national discussions over the role of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, the private security firm linked to Tompolo, which was awarded a major pipeline surveillance contract by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to curb crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.
While the initiative has reportedly contributed to improved oil output and reduced pipeline vandalism, critics argue that more indigenous contractors from host communities should be included in the arrangement to ensure fairness and broader participation.
A Sensitive Issue for Regional Stability
For many observers, the ongoing debate highlights deeper concerns about inclusion, equity, and respect among the various stakeholders who have historically shaped the political and security landscape of the Niger Delta.
Dokubo’s intervention therefore underscores the importance of recognizing the influence of long-standing figures within the region while ensuring that host communities remain central to the protection of oil infrastructure extracted from their lands.
Source: Gbaramatu Voice Interview / Fresh Angle International
Homepage: https://globalegberi.com.ng/wp
Author: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
Global Egberi Media International
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