Some leaders of the Itsekiri ethnic group in Warri, Delta State, have urged the federal government to adopt a more equitable and transparent approach in awarding pipeline surveillance contracts across oil-producing regions.
In a formal petition submitted to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu**, the Itsekiri community expressed dissatisfaction over what they describe as systemic marginalization in contract allocations within their territory.
The petition was presented at a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday by Hon. Kingsley Tenumah, Chairman of the Itsekiri Indigenous People Movement, alongside Comrade Monoyo Edon, the group’s General Secretary.
According to the leaders, the current pipeline contract award mechanism fails to reflect the provisions of the **Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)**, which mandates the involvement and benefits of host communities in oil-related activities.
“The process as it stands is unjust and exclusionary,” the statement reads. “We demand a halt to all contract awards that disregard the interests of host communities and call for a review that ensures fairness, transparency, and inclusion.”
The petition also pointed to what they described as a lack of appreciation for the Itsekiri people’s longstanding contributions to the Nigerian economy.
“Despite being central to the nation’s oil wealth, our people are being sidelined in critical decisions that affect our environment and livelihood,” they said.
Raising the stakes, the leaders issued a seven-day ultimatum for the federal government to address their grievances, warning that continued inaction may trigger peaceful demonstrations across the region.
Still, the group expressed faith in the neutrality and capacity of the NSA to resolve the matter with fairness.
“We hold the NSA in high regard and believe he will act justly. His professionalism and integrity are not in doubt,” they added.
Their demands come at a time of heightened sensitivity in the Niger Delta, where oil-producing communities have for years decried neglect and lack of representation in resource governance and economic participation.