EASTER MESSAGE TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ON THE NEED DECENTRALIZE PIPELINE SURVEILLANCE CONTRACTS IN THE NIGER DELTA

As Christians across Nigeria and the world celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, a season that symbolizes sacrifice, renewal, justice, and hope, we extend warm Easter greetings to the Federal Government and all Nigerians.

Easter reminds us of the triumph of truth over injustice and the promise of a new dawn built on equity and inclusion. It is in this spirit that we call on the Federal Government to urgently reconsider and decentralize pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta region.

The current centralized structure of pipeline surveillance has continued to sideline many ethnic nationalities and host communities whose lands bear the burden of oil exploration. This approach not only breeds dissatisfaction but also weakens the collective responsibility required to effectively secure vital national assets.

We strongly advocate for a decentralized framework that ensures fair representation and active participation of all ethnic groups in the Niger Delta. By empowering local communities to take ownership of pipeline surveillance within their domains, the government will foster inclusivity, create employment opportunities, enhance local intelligence gathering, and significantly reduce vandalism and oil theft.

A community-driven surveillance system will promote trust, strengthen unity, and encourage sustainable peace in the region. It will also align with the principles of justice and fairness that Easter represents.

Delta Bans Valentine Parties In Schools

Furthermore, we emphasize that there is no recognized “mayor” or singular overlord across the Niger Delta. The region is a mosaic of diverse ethnic nationalities, each with its own leadership structures and traditional authorities. Therefore, no individual should assume overarching control or authority over the entire region. In this regard, we urge that figures such as Tompolo restrict their influence to their immediate domain, particularly Gbaramatu Kingdom, while allowing other ethnic groups the space and opportunity to protect and manage their own resources.

We urge the Federal Government to seize this moment of reflection and renewal to implement policies that recognize the diversity and rights of all Niger Delta people. Let this Easter mark the beginning of a more inclusive, equitable, and effective approach to securing our national resources.

May the spirit of Easter guide our leaders toward decisions that promote peace, unity, and prosperity for all.

Guard your pipeline and let me guard my own nor suppose tear anybody trouser or skirt

Happy Easter to all Niger Deltans in the struggle!

Chief Mathias Olowu, National Chairman, Odavwe R’Urhobo