PWA Threatens Legal Action Over Alleged Monopoly in Pipeline Surveillance
The leadership of the Peoples Wellbeing Association (PWA) has declared its intention to initiate legal proceedings at a High Court in Abuja, aiming to halt the renewal of the pipeline surveillance contract. The group is strongly advocating for the division of this contract among multiple stakeholders, arguing that such a distribution would significantly improve efficiency, transparency, stability, and inclusiveness across the affected states in the Niger Delta region.
Statement from PWA's Legal Head
Comrade Aliyu Sadiq, the Head of the Legal Unit of PWA, made this announcement in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja. Sadiq described the planned lawsuit as a last resort, essential for preserving peace and stability in the Niger Delta. He emphasized that this stability is currently threatened by attempts by a few individuals to monopolize the surveillance contract through exclusionary practices.
According to Sadiq, the principle of inclusion, which is central to the Niger Delta amnesty programme, is being severely undermined by efforts to concentrate the benefits of the region's struggle in the hands of a select few, to the detriment of others. "Tension is rising in the region due to the exclusion of key stakeholders. No single individual should control such a critical national assignment, especially when there are concerns about capacity," he stated.
Advocacy for Stakeholder Involvement
Sadiq stressed that involving stakeholders from different states would enhance the monitoring and protection of petroleum assets within their respective areas, thereby strengthening national security. "Each state, with its local stakeholders, is better positioned to safeguard critical oil infrastructure within its jurisdiction. Entrusting such national assets to one entity puts the country at risk," he added.
He further explained that the association's legal action would seek a court injunction to prevent any renewal of the contract until all relevant stakeholders are included. This move is seen as a proactive step to ensure fair participation and prevent potential conflicts.
Support for Government Reforms
While reiterating the group's support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Sadiq commended the ongoing reforms under the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd). He also praised the leadership of the NNPC's Group Managing Director, Engr. Bayo Ojulari, describing both him and President Tinubu as visionary leaders whose reforms are repositioning Nigeria on the global stage.
The PWA legal head concluded by calling for the re-election of President Tinubu, stating that continuity is necessary to sustain ongoing reforms and drive further economic transformation. This endorsement highlights the group's alignment with current governmental efforts while pushing for changes in specific contract allocations.
