The Riverine Peace Initiative in the Niger Delta (RPIND) has condemned calls by certain stakeholders from the Itshekiri group to retain pipeline surveillance contracts in the hands of a few elites in the region.

The group made its position known in a press statement signed by its President, Comrade Mulade Toluwa, and National Coordinator, Chief Henry Eyarefe, in Abuja.

The group further noted that many ex-militants and peace-building organizations that have worked tirelessly to sustain the relative peace in the region deserve to be included in the surveillance framework.

RPIND emphasized that broad-based participation would not only promote equity but also strengthen local ownership and enhance the security of critical oil infrastructure.

The organization also highlighted its contributions to the rehabilitation and reintegration of repentant militants in the Niger Delta, noting that RPIND played a key role in championing the amnesty programme later adopted by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

According to the statement, RPIND has served in various capacities in fostering and sustaining peace in the region.

The group added that if considered for pipeline surveillance contracts, it has the capacity to operate across the creek areas, engage and mobilize grassroots support for the President’s re-election bid in the region.