A coalition of 95 civil society groups under the Civil Society Coalition for Mandate Protection (CSC-MAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to end the use of militants for oil pipeline protection in the Niger Delta. The group expressed concerns that such engagements could escalate violence and undermine Nigeria’s stability.
In a statement by CSC-MAP leaders Okunola Ahmed and Balla Usman Aliu, they highlighted fears that proceeds from these contracts might be funding arms imports, thereby increasing the risk of conflict. The coalition urged the government to instead employ indigenous security firms committed to safeguarding critical oil infrastructure responsibly.
This call aligns with ongoing debates regarding pipeline security contracts, notably the controversial renewal of surveillance deals with Tantita Security Services, owned by former militant leader Tompolo. While some groups advocate for renewing Tompolo’s contract due to his success in reducing oil theft and boosting production, others warn that relying on armed actors poses long-term risks.
As the government navigates these concerns, CSC-MAP plans to petition President Tinubu and the National Assembly to address these issues and reconsider current security strategies in the oil-rich region.
