HOSCON Urges Restraint Over Pipeline Surveillance Dispute, Backs Tompolo’s Leadership
The Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas and Pipeline Impacted States (HOSCON) has called on agitators involved in disputes over pipeline surveillance contracts to desist from attacks on the Chief Executive of Tantita Security Services Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.
In a statement issued by its National Chairman, Prince Dr. Mike Emuh, the group described the criticisms and allegations against Tantita’s leadership as counterproductive, stressing that Tompolo has played a significant role in enhancing oil production and stabilising the Niger Delta region.
“We consider it a critical concern that must be addressed, especially as Tantita, under Tompolo’s leadership, has fostered peace, unity, and an enabling environment for improved oil and gas production in the Niger Delta,” Emuh stated.
He said HOSCON dissociates itself from the ongoing attacks and urged stakeholders to embrace constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
Emuh also noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s confidence in Tompolo is rooted in a history of engagement, recalling the latter’s mobilisation efforts in Okporoza, Gbaramotu in Delta State, ahead of the 2023 general elections.
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According to him, the campaign attracted prominent Ijaw leaders and stakeholders, including HOSCON members, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries.
“We are convinced that the President has implicit confidence in Tompolo on this national assignment. His continued management of surveillance and security architecture in the Niger Delta has yielded positive results,” he added.
The HOSCON chairman advised that instead of focusing on disputes over surveillance contracts, agitators should channel their efforts towards more pressing issues affecting host communities.
These, he said, include the effective implementation of the 13 percent derivation fund, full execution of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and its amendments, operationalisation of Section 162(2) of the 1999 Constitution in favour of host communities, and the establishment of a 13 percent Derivation Implementation Committee.
“These are critical areas that should attract collective attention for the greater good of the Niger Delta, rather than fixation on surveillance contracts,” Emuh emphasised.
While acknowledging existing gaps in the implementation of the PIA, he cautioned against rivalry and any form of violence, urging stakeholders to unite in support of peace and development in the region.
He called on agitators to work with the Federal Government, South-South governors, traditional institutions, and host communities to build a more stable, prosperous, and peaceful Niger Delta.
By PRNigeria
