By Jimitota Onoyume

The federal government has been urged to ignore calls for decentralization of the pipeline surveillance job awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria limited, TSSNL, stressing that the private security firm has enabled an appreciable surge in the nation’s daily crude oil production to a commendable level.

A coalition of youths from riverine communities in Delta state made the appeal after its meeting in Okwagbe waterside community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State where they reaffirmed support for Tantita Security Services.

The group said the way the Tantita was smoking out oil thieves from the Niger Delta region, it would be wrong for the government to alter the existing template.

The group’s Coordinator, Hon. Mere Williams, noted that the current surveillance arrangement has largely met its primary objectives, including curbing oil theft and improving crude oil production levels, and therefore should be maintained.

“I believe everyone knows that the involvement of Tantita Security has drastically reduced illegal oil activities across the region,” he said.

The group’s leader continued that the existing framework has already created employment opportunities for local communities, thereby fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility among residents.

Also reacting, the group’s publicity Secretary, Comrade Henry Erhiekire , who was accompanied by the Deputy Coordinator of the body, Comrade Kingsley Odutemu, said those calling for decentralization of the job were just after their personal gains and not the nation’s interest. According to him, those pushing for a fragmented system were motivated by self interest rather than the overall good of the Niger Delta and the nation..

“We believe the current structure is working effectively and should be sustained in the interest of national economic growth and security,” the group said.

The group further urged the Federal government to remain focused and resist pressure to alter a system delivering measurable and good results.

The body also called on stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to prioritize collaboration and continuity in order to consolidate the gains recorded so far.