Itsekiri Coalition Warns Against Decentralizing Pipeline Surveillance

A coalition of Itsekiri groups and stakeholders have warned that breaking pipeline surveillance into smaller community-based units could weaken coordination, reduce accountability, and put oil infrastructure at risk.

The groups made their position known during a press conference in Ugbuwangue, Warri South on Wednesday, where they insisted that pipeline monitoring should remain under a coordinated and centralised structure to ensure efficiency and accountability. They referenced the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, noting that the law already provides a framework for host community participation without dismantling professionally managed surveillance arrangements.

Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Mone Oris, Chairman, Itsekiri Liberation Group, stated that fragmenting surveillance responsibilities across multiple community groups could create operational gaps and make coordination more difficult, potentially exposing pipelines to greater risk.

The stakeholders therefore urged advocates of decentralisation to reconsider their stance, maintaining that the current system has contributed to improved monitoring and increased crude oil production in recent years.

They also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for extending pipeline surveillance opportunities to Niger Delta indigenes.

Chairman of Itsekiri Host Communities, Comrade Itse Omajugho, added that host communities are already involved in the existing structure, noting that their participation has supported stronger pipeline protection and helped boost oil output.