Group Mobilises To Protest Pipeline Surveillance Contract

The Niger Delta Youth Parliament plans to stage a peaceful protest in four cities over alleged exclusion from a multi-billion-naira pipeline surveillance contract.

The demonstrations will be held simultaneously in Uyo, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, the speaker of the Parliament. Daniel Ifon Samuel, said the action followed growing frustration among youths in the region.

He alleged that the contract, reportedly worth about N12.87 billion monthly and handled by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, had been concentrated in the hands of a few individuals.

Samuel said the development had sidelined many capable youths who urgently needed economic opportunities amid worsening hardship.

He added that the disruption of local oil refining activities across the Niger Delta had further compounded the situation, leaving many young people without sustainable livelihoods.

“The contract has been concentrated in the hands of a limited few, thereby excluding the majority of capable youths within the region,” he said.

The group called on the Federal Government to urgently review the surveillance framework to ensure broader participation and inclusiveness.

Samuel noted that such a move would promote fairness, create employment and reduce rising tensions in the oil-rich region.

He stressed that the protest would be conducted peacefully and in line with the law, assuring that participants would cooperate with security agencies.

“Our objective is to express our grievances in a responsible and constructive manner. We remain committed to maintaining order,” he added.