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Tension flared at the National Assembly Complex on Wednesday as demonstrators converged on the premises, demanding that lawmakers take decisive action against crude oil theft in the Niger Delta.
The protesters, under the Coalition of Civil Society for Economic Protection, were stopped by security operatives, including the Nigeria Police Force, as they attempted to access the complex while chanting and displaying placards condemning oil bunkering.
The protest coincided with intensified legislative efforts, as a joint session of Senate and House committees prepares to deliberate on pipeline security and oil theft issues that continue to erode Nigeria’s production capacity and revenue.
Addressing journalists, the group’s convener, Tesleem Kolawole, urged lawmakers to prioritise results-driven policies and avoid disrupting existing security frameworks.
“We call on the lawmakers to sincerely and holistically look at the journey of Tantita from when they started securing the country to date, without fear or favour.
They should examine the modus operandi of the contract and its primary aim to determine whether it has been successful or not.
“The conversation around pipeline surveillance must be guided by results, because when national assets are secured, the economy benefits, communities stabilise, and young people gain real opportunities.
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“In that regard, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has become a visible part of a broader national effort that has helped restore confidence in pipeline security and crude oil production.”
Kolawole argued that recent gains in oil output should not be undermined, pointing to improved production levels since private surveillance initiatives were introduced.
“So our message here today is simple. This is not the time to weaken a framework that has helped restore production, support youth enterprise, improve education, and create alternatives to criminality.
“This is the time to strengthen accountability, improve coordination, and protect what is working. When a programme produces measurable gains in oil security, education, skills, agriculture, and youth engagement, the responsible thing is not disruption; it is consolidation.
“Therefore, we call for continuity, transparency, and support for every initiative that secures national assets while also lifting people. Tantita’s record, as publicly reported, shows that security and development can work together. That is the standard we should protect for Nigeria’s future,” he said.
The demonstration comes as top government and security officials, including Godswill Akpabio and Tajudeen Abbas, prepare for a high-level parliamentary roundtable expected to shape the next phase of Nigeria’s fight against crude oil theft.
