The United Niger Delta Congress (UNDC) has appealed to the National Assembly to end the monopoly in pipeline surveillance in the Niger Delta, stressing that decentralising contracts would promote fairness, transparency and stability across the region.
In a statement signed by Its National Secretary, Comrade Emaluji Michael Sunday he said “Fellow Niger Deltans, esteemed members of the Coalition of Niger Delta Youths, I bring you warm greetings from the United Niger Delta Congress (UNDC) as you take to the National Assembly peacefully, to demand a fair deal for our people.”
Comrade Michael further said, “We commend your courage and determination to fight for the rights of our communities. The demand for decentralization of pipeline surveillance operations is not just a call for fairness, but a cry for justice. For too long, our people have suffered the consequences of oil exploration and production without reaping the benefits.”
He said the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 provides for community participation in the oil and gas industry, and we demand that this provision be implemented. Chapter 3, Section 257 of the PIA states that “the host community shall be entitled to participate in the management of the petroleum operations in their area”.
“We insist that the pipeline surveillance contracts should be decentralized and spread out to the states of the Niger Delta region, as our common patrimony, rather than being handed over to one family or individual. This is the only way to ensure fairness, transparency, and equitable distribution of benefits.
“With a sustainable increase in barrel-per-day production, we envision a brighter future for our people. We will ensure that our oil resources are utilized for the benefit of all, and that our communities are developed in a sustainable and equitable manner,” the statement reads.
“Localization of pipeline surveillance will greatly improve security in our region. When our people are involved in the protection of these pipelines, we will see a significant reduction in oil theft, vandalism, and other forms of sabotage. This will not only increase revenue for our government, but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth in our communities.
“we want to assure you that the UNDC stands with you. We will continue to advocate for the rights of our people and demand that our voices are heard.
“In a special gesture, we propose that 35% of the rewards from our efforts will go to the females from the ethnic nationalities of the Niger Delta region. This is our way of empowering our women and recognizing their role in the struggle for our rights.
“Let us march peacefully, but let us also be resolute in our demand for justice. The time for excuses is over; the time for action is now. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we will succeed.”
