The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • CDS office has performed excellently under Tinubu, says MOSIEND

    CDS office has performed excellently under Tinubu, says MOSIEND

    The Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has scored the office of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu high in performance.

    The President of MOSIEND, Amb. Kennedy Tonjo-West said the Ijaw group gave the rating after juxtaposing the records of the incumbent CDS, Gen. Christopher Musa, with those of his predecessors.

    West said Musa had demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision, driving the Nigerian Armed Forces towards greater professionalism and effectiveness within two years.

    “Since taking office on June 19, 2023, under President Tinubu,  General Musa has achieved numerous milestones that underscore his commitment to national security and defence”, West said.

    He said under General Musa’s leadership, the country’s crude oil production surpassed OPEC quota, marking a significant milestone in the country’s economic growth.

    READ ALSO: FG moves to fast-track civil servants’ health insurance, compensation claims

    West observed that under Musa, surveillance strategies had curbed oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal bunkering, reducing crude oil theft by over 90 per cent, adding that the strategy led to a significant improvement in the terminal recovery factor and increased oil production values and receipts.

    He said, “The Nigerian Armed Forces have enhanced their operational capabilities, leveraging technology and innovative strategies to combat security challenges.

    General Musa has emphasised the importance of professionalism, discipline, and adherence to human rights, fostering a culture of excellence within the armed forces.

    “The CDS has nurtured strategic partnerships with regional and international partners, enhancing cooperation and collaboration in areas such as counter-terrorism, peacekeeping, and defence diplomacy”.

    The MOSIEND boss said Musa articulated a clear vision for the Nigerian Armed Forces, emphasising the importance of professionalism, discipline, and service to the nation.

    “The CDS has fostered a collaborative approach, working closely with other security agencies, government ministries, and international partners to achieve common goals. General Musa has demonstrated strategic thinking, leveraging his experience and expertise to navigate complex security challenges and develop effective solutions”, he said.

    West added that the impact of Musa’s leadership could be seen in the improved security situation in Nigeria, as well as the enhanced professionalism and effectiveness of the armed forces, observing that his commitment to national security and defence earned him recognition and respect within and abroad.

    He said the high performance rating of Musa remained a testament to President Tinubu’s expertise in the selection and placement of his appointees for effective and efficient governance.

    He said MOSIEND would continue to highlight Musa’s remarkable leadership, strategic vision, and contributions to national security to serve as an inspiration to others and a testament to his dedication to public service.

    “The appointment of General Musa by Mr. President has been instrumental in achieving these milestones, and Nigerians are encouraged to support the Nigerian armed forces in their efforts to secure the nation’s oil resources, stamp out terrorism and build a more prosperous future for all”, he said.

  • Young lawyers thank Senator Onyesoh over N23.85m ‘Call to Bar’ support

    Young lawyers thank Senator Onyesoh over N23.85m ‘Call to Bar’ support

    Young lawyers from the Rivers East Senatorial District have expressed gratitude to Senator Allwell Onyesoh for providing financial support totalling N23.85 million to 159 law graduates ahead of their Call to Bar ceremony.

    The delegation of over 15 representatives visited Senator Onyesoh at his National Assembly office in Abuja last week to convey their appreciation on behalf of the 2025 Young Lawyers Class.

    Under the initiative, each beneficiary received N150,000 to cover costs associated with the Call to Bar, including wigs, gowns, and other required materials. Initially targeted at 108 beneficiaries, the programme was expanded to accommodate an additional 51 graduates.

    Onyesoh stated that the intervention was motivated by his personal commitment to youth empowerment, recalling the challenges he faced earlier in life.

    “For me, it is money well spent. I didn’t do this for thanks or recognition—I did it because I believe it’s the right thing to do,” he said.

    READ ALSO: Katsina Gov Radda stable after minor road crash

    The senator encouraged the young lawyers to uphold ethical standards and dedicate themselves to professional excellence.

    Speaking on behalf of the group, delegation leader Godswill Onyegbu said the financial support had eased both ceremonial and logistical costs for the recipients.

    He also referenced Senator Onyesoh’s earlier N6.7 million support package provided for Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) training to other young legal professionals.

    Another delegate, Wele Promise Tochukwu from Ikwerre local government area, commended the senator for what he described as a track record of constituency-focused representation, highlighting ongoing legislative interventions and infrastructure development across the district.

    Azunda Blessing from Obio/Akpor shared her personal account of how the grant proved critical after private fundraising efforts had failed, while Abbey Kalio Boma from Okrika praised the senator’s emphasis on human capital development.

    During the meeting, the delegation presented a thank-you plaque to the senator and offered prayers for his continued service.

    Senator Onyesoh also announced scholarships for two of the young lawyers—Azunda Blessing and Fortunatus Chisom Njoku—to pursue postgraduate legal education.

    The senator reaffirmed his focus on supporting youth development in the district, urging the young professionals to commit themselves to integrity and service delivery in their future careers.

  • From feeding bottle to self-reliance: Otu’s strategic divestment from carnival Calabar

    From feeding bottle to self-reliance: Otu’s strategic divestment from carnival Calabar

    • By Linus Obogo

      This has been long in coming and in fact, long overdue- bring the 20-years of feeding bottle approach to an end and adopt a more sustainable, self-reliant strategic divestment policy to the management of the biggest street event on the continent.

      But in a moment that shall shimmer through the annals of Cross River’s cultural renaissance, His Excellency, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has once again etched his name in gold as a leader not only attuned to the rhythm of his people’s desires but also courageously anchored in the winds of transformational governance. With sublime grace and piercing foresight, Governor Otu, in the hallowed hall of the state executive council chamber, before the conclave of his 32-member council, declared that the 2025 edition of the iconic Christmas Festival — lyrically themed “Traces of Time” — shall be the last to receive full sponsorship from the state. Thus, like a river flowing into an ocean of new possibilities, the carnival is now being released from the gentle grip of government into the wider embrace of strategic partnership and inspired enterprise.

      For over two decades, the Christmas Festival and Carnival Calabar have been the shimmering soul of Cross River — a euphoric expression of its plural cultures, a celestial mingling of sound, spectacle, and story. But while the streets throbbed with joy and pageantry, the machinery behind the scenes was oiled, year after year, by substantial state funds. In pivoting from this model, Governor Otu is not drawing a curtain, but lifting a veil — unveiling a future where culture is not merely performed but owned, invested in, and allowed to bloom into a self-sustaining heritage economy.

      This move is no mere fiscal maneuver. It is a philosophical awakening. It reveals a governor thinking far beyond his time, one who understands that the truest gifts a leader can bestow are not endless provisions, but enabling environments; not dependency, but dignity. To wean the carnival off public subvention is to invite the spirit of shared responsibility — where every business, every brand, every culture-bearer, and indeed every citizen, becomes a custodian of this glowing treasure.

      Indeed, this decision gleams with poetic symmetry. Just as “Traces of Time” evokes the footprints of history and the call of posterity, so too does Governor Otu’s divestment signal the passing of the torch — from government to the people, from administration to collaboration, from obligation to opportunity. It is a declaration that our cultural expressions must now be buttressed by creative entrepreneurship, and that the economic soul of tourism must be awakened not by endless government spending, but by the alchemy of innovation, patronage, and purpose.

      Read Also: OPC cautions Asari Dokubo over outbursts against Tinubu

      It takes extraordinary wisdom to know when to let go, and even greater courage to do so with elegance and poise. Governor Otu, in his signature calm and golden style, has shown both. He is not merely tightening the fiscal belt; he is expanding the spiritual waistline of our cultural ecosystem. In this bold gesture, he has proclaimed: let those who benefit, invest; let those who dance, also build the stage; let those who cheer, also help bear the cost. This is the true meaning of participatory culture — where the people do not wait for culture to be served, but become co-chefs in the banquet of heritage.

      And what a banquet it will be. Freed from the constraints of bureaucratic budgeting, Carnival Calabar now has the chance to soar — to become not just Africa’s biggest street party, but its most innovative cultural platform. Corporate Nigeria, the Diaspora, multinationals, artists, artisans, dreamers and doers — all are summoned to the table. Governor Otu is in essence telling the world: Cross River is no longer offering culture as consumption, but as capital.

      This profound policy shift also weaves seamlessly into the broader tapestry of Governor Otu’s developmental vision — a People First agenda that reimagines tourism not as seasonal delight, but as year-round economic strategy. It reflects his administration’s commitment to reducing the weight of recurrent expenditures while reengineering government as an enabler of enterprise. Here is a leader who sees in every masquerade not just beauty, but business; in every cultural troupe not just talent, but trade.

      As the final state-sponsored edition of the Christmas Festival approaches, the air in Calabar is already pregnant with nostalgia and anticipation. Yet beneath the pageantry, a powerful idea is taking root — that culture is not a burden to be carried, but a bridge to be built. Governor Bassey Edet Otu has not just announced a change in policy; he has lit a fire in the soul of a people, bidding them to rise, to own, and to inherit the legacy of the carnival. In this act of visionary release, he has written a new verse in the poetry of leadership — and history, surely, shall sing his praise.

      • Obogo is Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
    • NLNG vs Contractor’s N5b suit: Court dismisses Marcobarb’s suit

      NLNG vs Contractor’s N5b suit: Court dismisses Marcobarb’s suit

      …says the plaintiff could not prove his claim

      ….as contractor cries out, says no indigenous contractor can win case against NLNG or oil majors in Nigerian courts

      A State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt High Court, the Rivers State capital  has dismissed the N5.74bn claim filed by an indigenous contractor, Macobarb International Limited, against the NLNG for breach of contract and accumulated losses.

      The presiding Judge, Chinwendu Nwogu in his judgment yesterday dismissed the case “for lack of proof.”

      Reacting to the development, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), of the Firm(Marcobarb), Shedrack Ogboru,  cried out, saying the fate of indigenous contractors in Nigerian courts is doomed.

      The suit(claim) lasted four years in court, having been filed since 2022 , in suit number HC/2013/CS/2022. The judgement was finally delivered yesterday.

      Speaking to newsmen shortly after the ruling, Ogboru told newsmen that the judge abandoned the crux of the matter and the terms of the contract to deny Macobarb the claims, describing the ruling as a miscarriage of Justice.

      Showing anger and frustration, Ogboru said he felt he presented tight case to the court to show that the NLNG breached terms of payments and that the breaches caused slowdown of the execution of the contract, but regretted that the judge did not agree with any of his arguments. 

      READ ALSO: Yahaya Bello weds fourth wife in private ceremony

      According to him, the frustated and highly disappointed contractor, many indigenous contractors have died as a result of injustices in the hands of the oil majors, he said only abroad do communities and local contractors get some form of justice, never in Nigeria.

      He said,  “My case is presented 100 per cent, the NLNG’s case is zero; but surprisingly, the NLNG has rather been upheld, and Macobarb denied. I pity indigenous contractors in Nigerian courts. We are doomed.”

      In his judgment, Nwogu ruled that the NLNG did not breach its contract with the contractor and that the gas company did not unlawfully deny Macobarb payments. 

      The judge said work executed by Macobarb did not amount to ‘work done’ as stated in the contract terms except the NLNG approved it as so, and that the provision mandating the person recognized as ‘contract holder’ nominated by the NLNG as the one to authorize any dealings with the contractor did not mean that he alone could act for the NLNG as relied upon by the contractor. The judge ruled that the ‘contract holder’ was a mere day to day overseer of the project, and that any official mandated by the NLNG can terminate the contract. 

      The judge also ruled that the contract did not provide for ‘standdown payment’ and that the NLNG did not cause delays in the execution of the contract as claimed by the contractor.

      He equally ruled that the payment failures by the NLNG that the contractor claimed affected the contract did not amount to an offence or breach of the contract but that the contractor misused the loan he obtained from banks. 

      To this end, Nwogu later ruled the case in favour of all the grounds submitted by the NLNG and none of the grounds by the contractor, and even tongue-lashed the contractor in most of his rulings.

      Crux of the matter

      Macobarb International Limited, an indigenous contractor, had dragged the NLNG to court claiming over N1Bn (later amended to N5.074Bn) for alleged breaches to a contract (B130142PPI, Access Control) in the NLNG plant area with three years duration.

      The suit said the contract provided that Macobarb be paid bit by bit progressively based on the value of verified work done.

      Macobarb in its claims said the contract also forbade delay of any kind in the project and provided for penalty on whoever caused the delay. It also provided for alert system should anything want to cause a delay.

      Macobarb said it activated the alert clauses when payment delays began to happen but that nothing was done to rectify the delays until the contract was terminated.

      He argued that the wrong person unknown to the contract signed the contract letter and that payment denials amounted to breach of the contract.

    • Tinubu assures A’Ibom of continued support, development

      Tinubu assures A’Ibom of continued support, development

      President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the continued development of Akwa Ibom State, assuring that the Federal Government will work closely with the state in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda and the state’s ARISE Agenda.

      The President gave the assurance on Friday when he received in audience the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Governor Umo Eno as well as Senator Aniekan Akpan and Senator Ekong Sampson.

      READ ALSO: Yahaya Bello weds fourth wife in private ceremony

      Tinubu emphasised his dedication to inclusive national development and praised Eno’s ARISE Agenda as a strategic complement to the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

      The visit also featured the formal presentation of Senators Aniekan Akpan and Ekong Sampson, who recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

      In addition, the delegation used the occasion to commiserate with the President on the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his death as a national loss and acknowledging his legacy in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.

    • Okporoko lauds Ebie for transforming NDDC, execution of projects in N-Delta

      Okporoko lauds Ebie for transforming NDDC, execution of projects in N-Delta

      The current Chairman of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie, has been commended for pursuing the ongoing transformation and repositioning of Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC.

      Executive Assistant, Security Matters To Delta Governor, Amb Chief Godwin Okporoko JP made the commendation recently in Port Harcourt during the celebration of NDDC’s 25 years anniversary.

      He also assured the current Board led by Chiedu Ebie will complete the four-year term to enable the Board consolidate and complete projects they have initiated and being executed across the Niger Delta region.

      Okporoko, a prominent Urhobo leader, noted that the present Board has erased that negative impression of irregularities, mismanagement, abandoning of projects about the NDDC, adding that the system has changed positively under the Chairman of Chiedu Ebie.

      He said: “Before now, the people of Niger Delta had lost confidence in NDDC due to past happenings, but the present Board led by Ebie has successfully restored the confidence of the people on NDDC. We are seeing a transparent, effective and efficient NDDC that is working to make a difference.

      READ ALSO: 2Baba, Annie didn’t manage their marriage well – Baba Fryo

      “ The Chiedu Ebie led Board to NDDC has done well. They are executing life changing projects directly benefiting the people, especially the rural communities. The people are feeling the positive impacts of NDDC.”

      He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for making a right decision to appoint Chiedu Ebie as Chairman of NDDC in August, 2023, adding that the regional interventionist agency is up and doing.

      Okporoko, also the President General, Owahwa Sub-Clan, OML34, Ughievwen Kingdom, Ughelli South LGA, also appreciated the collaboration and efforts of the Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku. NDDC and other member of the Board.

      He further appealed to stakeholders and host communities in the region to continue to support the present NDDC Board, to do more in the region

    • Buhari exemplified integrity, rule of law – Emami

      Buhari exemplified integrity, rule of law – Emami

      The Ologbotsere of Warri, Chief Ayiri Emami, has condoled with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Buhari family and people of Daura in Katsina state, over the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, saying Buhari  exemplified integrity and stood stoutly for the rule of law throughout his lifetime.   

      The remains of the late President who died in a London hospital on Sunday were buried on Tuesday  in his home town, Daura, Katsina state.

      Chief Emami, in a statement he personally signed, described the ex-President and Head of State as a statesman absolutely committed to the Nigerian project and founding principles of the All Progressives Congress till his painful exit.        

      Emami,  who served as the Deputy Director, Election Planning and Monitoring Committee of the Presidential Campaign Committee of  President Buhari re – election in 2019, recalled the contributions of the late President to the Nigerian economy as Petroleum Minister under the Olusegun Obasanjo military regime and as civilian President between 2015- 2019.

      READ ALSO: Aiyedatiwa assigns portfolios to newly sworn-in Ondo commissioners

       “As Petroleum Minister under General Obasanjo, he supervised the  construction of   21 depots across the country, invested  in pipelines and storage facilities and built  the pipeline network, connecting the Bonny terminal and Port Harcourt refinery.

      “As democratically elected President, he  successfully constructed the Warri – Itakpe Rail Line as well as the Second Niger Bridge. These are just a few  of the indelible legacies of President Buhari.” 

      The APC chieftain also recalled that as sitting President, Buhari never interfered with the democratic process which he noted made it possible for  the victory of opposition parties in certain off-season elections held under his watch. He also commended the late President for loyalty to the APC and his successor, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

       “Itsekiri as a tribe, which is firmly rooted in the rule of law and fairness, would not forget Buhari for upholding these virtues.    

      “The strong political bond he formed with President Bola Tinubu, which has redirected the course of the  country on the path of  the progressive, is also worthy of note.”

    • Dafinone hails media icon Obaigbena at 66

      Dafinone hails media icon Obaigbena at 66

      Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has celebrated the birthday of Prince Nduka Obaigbena, CON, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Newspapers and ARISE News, describing him as a trailblazing icon in the Nigerian and African media landscape.

      In a tribute on Monday, Dafinone praised Obaigbena’s pioneering role in elevating journalism standards and building world-class media institutions. 

      “From founding THISDAY—a respected voice in Nigeria’s print journalism—to launching ARISE News, a global platform for African narratives, Prince Obaigbena has redefined media excellence,” he said.

      He commended the media mogul for using his platforms to amplify democracy, drive national discourse, and spotlight African excellence on the global stage. “Through courage and innovation, he has given voice to the voiceless and upheld the values of press freedom in trying times,” the Senator noted.

      Dafinone also lauded Obaigbena’s cultural contributions through initiatives such as the THISDAY Music Festival and ARISE Fashion Week, which he said have positioned Nigeria as a hub of creativity and global influence.

      READ ALSO: Buhari’s last public appearances

      Dafinone wrote:: “I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, heartily congratulate the Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Newspapers and ARISE News, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, CON, on the joyous occasion of his birthday. It is a day to celebrate not only a distinguished media mogul, but a visionary leader who has transformed the Nigerian and African media space with innovation, courage, and excellence.

      “Prince Obaigbena’s pioneering contributions to journalism and media development in Nigeria are legendary. From founding THISDAY Newspaper—one of the nation’s most influential and respected print publications—to establishing ARISE News as a global platform for African voices, he has consistently raised the bar for quality journalism and broadcast standards across the continent. His boldness in championing free press and fair reporting remains unmatched.

      “As a patriot and global citizen, Prince Obaigbena has used the power of the media to drive national conversations, influence policy, and promote democracy, culture, and enterprise. Through his platforms, he has given voice to the voiceless, spotlighted global African excellence, and served as a beacon for press freedom in times of both peace and pressure.

      “Beyond journalism, Prince Obaigbena is also a cultural icon and institution builder. His initiatives, like the THISDAY Music Festival and the ARISE Fashion Week, have positioned Nigeria as a centre of global attention, inspiring creativity and expanding economic opportunities in the arts, fashion, and entertainment industries.

      “On behalf of my family and the people of Delta Central, I celebrate Prince Nduka Obaigbena for his enduring legacy and unwavering commitment to truth, innovation, and the African narrative. I pray for his continued strength, good health, and greater accomplishments in the years ahead. 

      “Happy Birthday, the Duke of Nigerian media!”

    • A golden dawn for tourism: Gov Otu’s N18bn vision of splendour, soul, sustainable glory

      A golden dawn for tourism: Gov Otu’s N18bn vision of splendour, soul, sustainable glory

      By Linus Obogo 

      The much awaited rebirth in the tourism sector in Cross River could not have found a more resonant expression as Governor Bassey Edet Otu, in a flourish of visionary leadership and statesmanlike poise, last week unfurled a breathtaking new chapter in the state’s story. It is indeed, a tale delicately embroidered with promise, prosperity, and purpose. 

      With the approval of a staggering N18 billion for the rehabilitation and rejuvenation of the state’s most cherished tourism treasures, the Governor has lit the torch of renaissance across the hills and waterscapes of a once-slumbering paradise. This bold intervention is not merely financial—it is philosophical. It is a declaration of intent, a clarion call to awaken the spirit of heritage and hospitality that defines the Cross River soul.

      At the heart of this monumental reawakening lies the rebirth of legendary tourism assets: the iconic Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort, the soul-soothing Marina Resort, the breathtaking Obudu Mountain Resort, and the cascading majesty of Kwa Falls. Long silent and subdued by time and neglect, these hallowed grounds are being summoned back to life in a symphony of steel, stone, and sunlight. The “Season of Sweetness,” Governor Otu’s poetic signature for this era, now finds its most evocative expression in this renaissance of destination and identity—a celebration of memory, magnificence, and the magic that once made Cross River the beating heart of Nigeria’s tourism dream.

      More than just a restoration of bricks and timber, this masterstroke includes the inspired remodeling of Amber Tinapa Hotel and Studio Tinapa—structures that once stood as shimmering testaments to ambition but now await renewal under the golden gaze of purposeful governance. In a flourish of architectural intent, the blueprint also includes the construction of a modern pier harbor—an ode to the aquatic grace of Calabar’s riverfront, and a bold invitation to the world to rediscover the charm of Cross River by boat, breeze, and breathtaking vistas.

      But what is a destination without a stage? With majestic foresight, Governor Otu has unveiled the Axari Towers project, a towering symbol of aspiration to serve as the grand vestibule for visitors during the 20th anniversary of the world-acclaimed Calabar Carnival in December 2025. As this edifice rises into the tropical skyline, it will do more than lodge weary travelers; it will cradle the dreams of a state reborn in confidence. It shall echo with the laughter of cultures colliding joyfully, of pageantry in its purest form, and of a hospitality industry reaching ever skyward.

      Yet, beyond the physical grandeur lies the deeper pulse of the governor’s intention—to return tourism to the hands and hearts of the people. The proposed “Experience Calabar” campaign, coupled with the establishment of a Heritage Market, will not only rekindle cultural memory but carve out sacred spaces for artisans, drummers, weavers, dancers, storytellers, and custodians of our collective identity. It is a celebration of Cross River’s soul—a soul as ancient as the hills of Obudu and as fluid as the tides that kiss Marina’s shores.

      This sweeping renaissance will also carry with it a transformation of tourism’s underbelly—transportation, accommodation, and infrastructure—all reimagined with the elegance of vision and the efficiency of modernity. No longer shall tourists arrive to faded grandeur and weary systems. Instead, they shall be embraced by a state humming with readiness and radiance, guided by a governor who understands that true development is not just measured in cement and columns, but in the experience it offers and the dignity it restores.

      As this dream materialises, the cascading effects shall reach every corner of the state. Jobs will bloom where weeds once grew; investments will trickle into communities like the gentle rains of April; and every child who dances in the Carnival will know they are part of something sacred, something shared, something sublime. This is not mere governance—it is an art form. It is stewardship with soul. It is legacy with light.

      In approving this N18 billion vision, Governor Bassey Otu has not only redeemed once-glorious monuments but has etched his name in the eternal scroll of Cross River’s most illustrious dreamers. He has turned nostalgia into strategy, and memory into momentum. With the stroke of this bold initiative, he has flung wide the doors of the future—where Cross River once again becomes not just a place on the map, but a destination of the heart.

      Obogo is Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media And Publicity to Governor Bassey Edet Otu — linusobogo@gmail.com

    • IYC: ignore calls to stop Tantita’s contract

      IYC: ignore calls to stop Tantita’s contract

      Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, has condemned calls by Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) and others on President Bola Tinubu to remove the pipeline surveillance contract from Tantita Security Services Limited (TSSNL) on Urhobo territory.

      The council is ‘‘appalled that the body may have lost touch with its formation values, which include building strength in unity and good neighbourliness’’.

      It noted that the contract awarded to TSSNL, by the Federal Government was not on ethnic basis, but on the grounds of competence. In fact, the contract was awarded after an open bidding and rigorous screening.

        It said: ‘‘TSSNL has delivered on the terms of its contract, which is evident in the rise of oil production volume.

      ‘‘It is within the rights of UPU to seek perceived benefits due the Urhobo from government. However, doing such at the altar of whipping ethnic sentiments is a misstep, too overt to ignore, knowing full well the number of Urhobo contractors working in Ijaw territories.

       ‘‘This misstep, if left uncorrected, could snowball into a sustained blackmail against an Ijaw-owned firm and whip up tension in Warri and environs.

      READ ALSO: Meet the next Olubadan-in-waiting, ex-Gov Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja

      Ijaw Youth Council urges UPU ‘‘to refrain from undermining achievements of Tantita as a frontline army in the fight against illegal oil bunkering, oil theft and protection of oil facilities.

      ‘‘We call on President Tinubu to ignore the calls from UPU and all quarters to rescind Tantita’s engagement based on the competence and impeccable results the company has produced, as this calls are borne out of ethnic sentiments due to the management of TSSNL living up to its expectations.

      ‘‘In fact, we urge the President to expand the scope of the contract, as TSSNL’s commitment to boosting oil production volumes is obvious.

      ‘‘We urge TSSNL to be resolute in its fight against oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and its impactful CSR, it said.