A group of stakeholders from the Niger Delta area have come out strongly against the vote of confidence in favor of the ₦2.1 trillion surveillance program on the grounds that the move represents an excess of power and may lead to instability in the oil-rich region.
According to a press statement issued by the United Niger Delta Congress, the action by the National Assembly was an exercise of authority outside the scope of its mandate because the Constitution does not permit it to legitimize commercial contracts. The National Assembly is constitutionally required to only enact laws and exercise legislative oversight on relevant bodies.
In addition, the group referenced the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) that gives precedence to host communities when it comes to protecting oil and gas infrastructure. It noted that the new structure of putting all the burden on one person goes against what PIA mandates by leaving out host communities.
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Exclusion of the host communities, according to them, would escalate tension levels in the region and endanger peace in the area.
Questioning the effectiveness of the existing system, the coalition pointed to continued incidents of oil theft despite ongoing surveillance efforts. It argued that decentralising the contract would improve accountability and efficiency, as communities are better positioned to monitor activities within their territories.
The group called for the dismantling of what it described as a monopolistic arrangement and urged strict compliance with the PIA. It emphasised that inclusion, fairness, and community participation remain essential to achieving lasting stability in the Niger Delta.
