A Niger Delta activist and traditional ruler, Asari Dokubo, has stirred fresh debate over pipeline surveillance contracts in the region following claims that the Olu of Warri’s company is receiving a significantly larger share of funds compared to other contractors.
In a video from 17:05 shared on Facebook on Friday, March 27, 2026, Dokubo alleged that the company linked to the Olu of Warri is being allocated about N2.7 trillion for pipeline surveillance and protection. According to him, this figure surpasses the combined N2.1 trillion reportedly being received by Tantita Security Services, owned by Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and Maton Engineering.
The claims come amid ongoing scrutiny and public interest surrounding the awarding of pipeline protection contracts in the Niger Delta, a region that has long grappled with issues of oil theft, vandalism, and environmental degradation. These contracts are seen as a critical part of the federal government’s strategy to curb oil losses and improve national revenue.
Dokubo, who has remained a vocal figure on Niger Delta affairs, emphasized that his remarks were not intended to incite conflict among stakeholders involved in the contracts. Instead, he framed his statement as an effort to highlight what he perceives as disparities in the allocation of resources.
“Olu of Warri is getting more money than Tompolo. Olu of Warri is getting 2.7 trillion naira, Tompolo and Maton are getting 2.1 trillion naira,” Dokubo said in the video.
Despite raising concerns over the figures, Dokubo reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace and honoring prior agreements with other actors in the region. He made it clear that he has no intention of engaging in disputes with Tompolo or any other beneficiary of the pipeline surveillance deals.
He noted that he had previously pledged his support for Tompolo and others involved in securing oil infrastructure, stressing that he would not renege on that promise. This stance appears aimed at preventing tensions among influential figures in the Niger Delta, where competition over contracts has historically led to rivalries.
The pipeline surveillance initiative has been credited by some government officials with reducing crude oil theft and boosting production levels. However, critics have continued to question the transparency of the contract awards, as well as the exact financial details involved. Read_More…