Ex-agitator warns against pipeline surveillance decentralisation in Niger Delta
… cautions move could reverse gains in oil theft fight A former Niger Delta agitator, ‘General’ A. Godbless, of the Benikrukru Command in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa
... cautions move could reverse gains in oil theft fight
- From Simon Utebor, Asaba
A former Niger Delta agitator, 'General' A. Godbless, of the Benikrukru Command in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, has cautioned against calls to decentralise the Federal Government’s pipeline surveillance contract.
He warned that such a move could reverse gains recorded in the fight against crude oil theft.
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Godbless specifically warned ex-militant leader Ebikabowei Victor Ben, also known as Boyloaf, and other agitators advocating decentralisation to desist, describing their position as “provocative and destabilising.”
In a statement on Saturday made available to journalists, the ex-agitator expressed concern over what he described as “dangerous agitations” aimed at breaking up the current surveillance arrangement handled by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
According to him, the existing structure has demonstrated measurable success in curbing pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft across the Niger Delta, thereby contributing to improved oil production and increased national revenue.
“The call for decentralisation of pipeline surveillance is nothing but a calculated attempt to drag the Niger Delta back to the dark days of vandalism, insecurity, and economic sabotage,” he said.
He stressed that pipeline security requires a high level of coordination, discipline, and operational capacity, which he said Tantita has effectively provided under the leadership of Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo.
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“Pipeline surveillance is not about noise-making or holding meetings for selfish agendas. It is about capacity, discipline, and coordination. These are qualities that Tantita has clearly demonstrated. The results are visible for all Nigerians to see,” he added.
Godbless further alleged that proponents of decentralisation are motivated by personal interests rather than the collective good of the Niger Delta, warning that such moves could reopen loopholes for organised oil theft and sabotage.
“This so-called decentralisation is a coded return to divided control, which in the past created opportunities for vandalism and economic sabotage. We must not allow failed ideas to resurface,” he said.
He also called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to exercise caution and resist pressure to alter the current surveillance framework, noting that any disruption could undermine recent progress in oil production and national economic stability.
“The progress recorded in oil production is not accidental. It is the result of strategic engagement and capable hands managing critical assets. Any attempt to politicise or fragment this structure will create room for inefficiency and renewed sabotage,” he warned.
The ex-agitator urged stakeholders, community leaders, and other former militants in the Niger Delta to support existing structures that are delivering results, rather than promoting what he described as divisive agendas.
He reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining peace in the region and supporting initiatives that promote security, development, and economic growth across the Niger Delta.
