By Gabriel Ewepu

The Niger Delta Advocate 4 Good Governance, Anti-Corruption and Transparency Group has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure equitable inclusion of the Isoko ethnic nationality in Delta State within the pipeline surveillance arrangement in the Niger Delta.

In an open letter dated Thursday and signed by National President and Coordinator Engr. Captain Momoh Ebiowei Erickson, the group highlighted concerns raised during engagements with stakeholders in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The letter noted that earlier discussions had indicated an understanding for Mr. Karo Edor and his team to coordinate the Isoko segment of the pipeline surveillance project covering the entire Isoko land. However, stakeholders now report that the implementation structure was later adjusted, leading to calls for greater involvement of local Isoko people.

“We write this open letter in the spirit of patriotism, transparency, and deep concern for peace, equity, fairness, justice and stability within the Niger Delta region,” the letter stated. “This communication is not intended to malign any individual, company, kingdom, or ethnic nationality but to seek clarity, fairness, and urgent presidential engagement regarding the Isoko Ethnic Nationality Pipeline Surveillance arrangement under Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.”

The group acknowledged that since 2022, when Tantita Security Services was engaged, the primary goal has been to reduce oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and economic sabotage to boost production. It emphasized that meaningful participation by host communities, particularly Isoko stakeholders, is essential for achieving these objectives and promoting long-term stability.

The letter appealed for a Presidential roundtable discussion involving recognized traditional rulers, representatives of ethnic nationalities across the Niger Delta, leadership of Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSCON), Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, and relevant federal agencies.

“This proactive step will prevent possible unrest, safeguard production growth targets, protect national revenue, and reinforce your administration’s commitment to fairness and justice,” the group added. “Stability must not only be measured in barrels per day; it must also be measured in justice, inclusion, and peace.”

The group expressed confidence that transparent review and equitable participation would strengthen national unity, avoid unnecessary tension, and support sustainable economic growth in the region. It reaffirmed its commitment to peace, dialogue, and national economic stability.