Itsekiri Group Petitions NSA, Issues Ultimatum Over Pipeline Contract

Prominent Itsekiri group, the Warri Indigenous People’s Movement, WIPM has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the federal government in a petition addressed to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, demanding an immediate reversal of the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Limited.

The petition, submitted on Wednesday, 18 June 2025, in Abuja and obtained by Warri Sentinel, warns that failure by the federal government to respond within seven days could lead to peaceful protests and other lawful actions.

WIPM argues that awarding pipeline security contracts to companies affiliated with historic rival communities undermines local trust and poses a security risk in an already volatile region.

“We require a response to our demands within seven days from the date of receipt of this petition. Failure to respond or take meaningful action may lead to further action,” Hon. Kingsley Tenumah, Chairman, WIPM, warned while addressing the press in Abuja.

WIPM also alleged that an individual associated with the contract had referred to the Itsekiris as “numerically insignificant,” calling it provocative and disrespectful.

The group is demanding an immediate halt to all such contracts and the establishment of what they say should be a transparent, community-led process that aligns with the provisions of Nigeria’s Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). The Act, passed in 2021, includes guidelines for host community involvement in oil-related activities.

Speaking further, WIPM expressed hope that the NSA will treat their demands with the urgency they deserve and work towards a solution that benefits their community.

They reaffirmed their trust in the NSA’s neutrality and professionalism, expressing confidence that the matter will be handled with the seriousness and fairness it warrants.

Neither the Office of the NSA nor Tantita Security Services has yet responded.