The Warri Indigenous People Movement has raised alarm over what it described as the continued marginalisation of the Itsekiri ethnic group in the award of critical pipeline surveillance and maintenance contracts within their communities.
In a petition addressed to the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and signed by the group’s chairman, Hon. Kingsley Tenumah (Afere), and General Secretary, Comr. Monoyo Edon, the group accused the Federal Government of awarding contracts in their territory to individuals and companies they consider to be “sworn enemies” of the Itsekiri people.
The petition, titled “Protest Petition Against the Award of Community Pipeline Surveillance Contracts in Our Community to a Perceived Enemy,” expressed deep resentment over the renewal of a pipeline surveillance contract with Tantita Security Services Limited, describing the action as “an affront” and a deliberate act of subjugation against the Itsekiri host communities.
The petition read. “The continued decision to award surveillance, security, and maintenance contracts in our community to individuals affiliated with those who do not represent our interests is unjust and dangerous.”
The group said the action not only threatens the security of their community but also violates the spirit and provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which empowers host communities to benefit from and participate in the protection of critical oil infrastructure within their domains.
They further alleged that some beneficiaries of these contracts have mocked the Itsekiri people, belittling their numerical strength and importance despite the region’s significant contribution to the national economy.
“An individual who benefits from these contracts has been making boastful comments that our numbers are insignificant and therefore undeserving of recognition. This is unacceptable,” the petition added.
