By Davies Iheamnachor, PORT HARCOURT

Niger Delta Watchdog, NDW, has advised the Federal Government against any plan to decentralise the pipeline surveillance job in the Niger Delta, adding that such action would have far reaching effect on the economy of the nation.

NDW said the region needs a coordinated and stable security framework to safeguard the pipelines, adding any attempt to give the job to different people would trigger fresh conflicts, weaken coordination, and threaten Nigeria’s economic stability.

This is contained in a report by the body and signed by Johnny Obakpororo (AKA Comr. JohnnyObas) Central Cordinator, Comr Bakpa Oris, Delta state, High Chief Idowu Asonja, Ondo State, Comrade Douye Kodjo Isoun Bayelsa State.

Others are: Comrade Ellington Bakumor, Central PRO, Comr. Uyoata Assam Akwa Ibom State, Comr. John Etefia, Cross Rivers State and Comr Success Okporo Uche, Rivers State.

The report which was submitted to the Federal Government opined that while decentralisation is often promoted as a strategy for inclusivity and local participation, its application in the Niger Delta could have far-reaching negative consequences for peace and national revenue.

The report noted that decentralising pipeline security may escalate long-standing disputes among communities over land ownership, territorial boundaries, and control of oil resources, warning that assigning security responsibilities to multiple local entities could reinforce rival claims and legitimise tensions, thereby increasing the likelihood of renewed hostilities.

It read in part: “Groups within communities may attempt to seize control sometimes by force in order to access economic benefits tied to pipeline surveillance.”

The body stated that disputes among families over ancestral land ownership could also intensify, while the absence of a unified command structure may weaken accountability and complicate coordination efforts.

NDW said such instability could expose critical oil infrastructure to vandalism and sabotage, with dire consequences for Nigeria’s economy.

However, the body in the report commended the current centralised security arrangement managed by Tantita Security Services, describing it as effective in stabilising the region.

It read: “Under the leadership of Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, the firm was credited with facilitating dialogue among previously conflicting communities, reducing tensions, and fostering cooperation among local stakeholders.”

NDW further noted that the centralised framework has helped prevent internal disputes, maintain a unified approach to pipeline protection, and significantly reduce incidents of vandalism, adding that improved surveillance and coordinated response mechanisms have contributed to enhanced oil production levels and revenue stability.

It also called for deeper community engagement through structured dialogue involving experienced stakeholders, noting that consistent coordination and trusted leadership have been key to maintaining relative peace in the region.