From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
The monarchs from oil-producing communities in Bayelsa State and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigerian Limited (PINL) have reiterated the need to protect oil pipelines in their communities from vandalism.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ forum in Yenagoa, pioneer chairman of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council and Ibenanaowei of Bomo Kingdom, King Warri Joshua Igbugburu said the youths of oil communities must become more vigilant following recent threats to attack oil pipelines in the region.
He said stakeholders in the state should not take for granted the insecurity of oil pipelines by adequate preparations to protect the pipelines from destruction.
He disclosed that he has already addressed members of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) in his kingdom on the need to protect pipelines and other oil assets, adding that in his Kingdom, the situation is under control.
He commended PINL for its proactiveness and inclusivity in their operations, which has created an atmosphere of peace in Bomo Kingdom.
PINL Community Relations Consultant, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, stressed the importance of communities in the protection of pipelines in their communities.
He disclosed that PINL’s clear objective is to ensure infractions are curbed effectively through continuous engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, such as skill acquisition programs, medical outreach, and local employment for surveillance guards.
“Today is a day we set aside for our regular interaction, engagement with our host communities, and of course, our host communities have been wonderful in terms of the support they provide in the fight against pipeline vandalism.
“This kind of platform is required for us to come together collectively and appraise our journey so far. This is one of such occasions where we sit down with the communities to appraise our performance.
“This kind of platform is required for us to come together collectively and appraise our journey so far. This is one of such occasions where we sit down with the communities to appraise our performance.
“The target of the company is to ensure that we achieve zero infraction as well as uninterrupted operation on the Transit Monitoring Project (TMP). The communities have pledged their continued support to ensure that we achieve our target of increased oil production.”
Also speaking, the paramount ruler of Elebele Community, David Osene Osene, Ogbenegbe XI, gave kudos to PINL for its unique approach to community relations, noting that it was responsible for the positive results the company is getting.
President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Jonathan Lokpobiri, applauded PINL for integrating community stakeholders into its operations and described the company’s approach as a “wise decision” that acknowledges the importance of grassroots participation in resolving security challenges.
“For PINL to be part of the solution to the issues of insecurity in the Niger Delta, it is not only timely but a wise decision. For me, I give them credit for that. There is no company without people, especially in the context in which they are operating.
“The target of the company is to ensure that we achieve zero infraction as well as uninterrupted operation on the Transit Monitoring Project (TMP). The communities have pledged their continued support to ensure that we achieve our target of increased oil production.”
President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) worldwide, Jonathan Lokpobiri, applauded PINL for integrating community stakeholders into its operations and described the company’s approach as a “wise decision” that acknowledges the importance of grassroots participation in resolving security challenges.
“For PINL to be part of the solution to the issues of insecurity in the Niger Delta, it is not only timely but a wise decision. For me, I give them credit for that. There is no company without people, especially in the context in which they are operating.
PDP, other parties plan coalition against APC in Katsina
Some political parties in Katsina State have commenced discussions to form a coalition against the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2027 general election.
Mustapha Inuwa, former Secretary to the State Government (SSG), made this known in Katsina on Wednesday, while addressing some People’s Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders.
Inuwa was the APC governorship aspirant during the 2023 primary election in the state, but later joined the PDP.
“We have commenced discussions with members of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), People’s Redemption Party (PRP) and even prominent APC members to form a coalition for the 2027 election.
“It may shock you to know that some of the APC members who are supporting this movement are holding key positions in the APC government at state and federal level.”
Inuwa said that members of the opposition movement, which consisted of prominent politicians from within and outside the state, would soon reach a consensus on a political party to join, ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to him, discussions have reached an advanced stage to form a coalition to oust the APC at state and national levels.
Inuwa served as the presidential campaign Director of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, during the 2023 elections.
Former National Secretary of the PDP, Senator Umar Tsauri; a former Senator, representing Daura Zone, Ahmed Babba-Kaita, and Ahmed Musa-Yar’Adua, were among chieftains of the party at the meeting.