The Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, has cautioned against the growing politicisation of pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta, warning that attempts to fragment the arrangement could undermine national security and reverse recent gains in oil revenue protection.

Agbese gave the warning on Thursday in Abuja amid renewed agitation by some groups calling for the decentralisation of pipeline surveillance operations currently handled by private firms, including Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

While acknowledging concerns about inclusion and equity in the region, the lawmaker stressed that pipeline protection is a sensitive national responsibility that should not be subjected to political pressure or indiscriminate participation.

“Pipeline surveillance is not a contract that can be shared like political patronage. It is a strategic national security function aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s economic lifeline. We must be careful not to reduce it to a tool for appeasing every interest group,” he said.

Agbese argued that the current structure has yielded measurable results, including improvements in crude oil production and a decline in pipeline vandalism, attributing this to a coordinated and centralised approach.

He warned that breaking the arrangement into smaller units across states or interest groups could weaken accountability and create operational gaps.

“When you proliferate such a sensitive responsibility among too many actors, you inevitably create gaps. Those gaps can be exploited. You risk introducing moles into a system that requires the highest level of confidentiality and integrity,” he stated.

According to him, the involvement of unvetted actors could compromise intelligence gathering, disrupt coordinated responses, and embolden oil theft and sabotage.

The lawmaker emphasised that national security considerations must take precedence over sectional demands, noting the broader economic implications of any disruption to oil infrastructure.

“Our oil assets are not just regional resources; they are national assets. Any disruption to their protection affects government revenue, public spending, and the broader economy,” he said.

Agbese also cautioned against framing the issue as a struggle for entitlement, warning that such narratives could inflame tensions in the already volatile Niger Delta region.

“There is a difference between inclusion and fragmentation. We must not confuse the two. What we need is a system that works—one that delivers results, protects infrastructure, and supports national revenue generation,” he added.

He urged groups protesting the current arrangement to pursue dialogue with relevant authorities rather than actions that could heighten tensions.

“At a time when the country is working hard to stabilise oil production and improve revenue, we must avoid actions that could derail progress. This is not the moment for division or politicisation,” Agbese said.

Reiterating his position, he stressed that pipeline surveillance requires professionalism and strategic coordination.

“Not every responsibility can be democratised. Some require precision, trust, and a clear chain of command. Pipeline surveillance is one of them,” he added.