Paebi Samson, National President of the Justice & Restoration Network, speaking from Bayelsa State, has called on President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently restructure and decentralize pipeline surveillance contracts across the states of the Niger Delta, citing the need for better representation, inclusiveness, fairness, job creation, and strengthened national security.

Paebi Samson expressed concern that the current concentration of surveillance contracts in the hands of a few individuals and groups has created imbalance, exclusion, and growing discontent among communities that played vital roles in securing peace during the height of militancy in the region. He emphasized that a decentralized framework would ensure equitable distribution of opportunities across all Niger Delta states while enhancing grassroots participation in safeguarding critical oil infrastructure.

According to him, decentralization would significantly expand economic opportunities for youths in the region and promote a sense of ownership among local communities, thereby reducing pipeline vandalism and other related crimes. He stressed that individuals and groups who contributed to the struggle and subsequent peace-building efforts should not be sidelined in decisions that directly impact the stability of the Niger Delta.

Adding weight to the call, Niger Delta figure Asari Dokubo also stated that leaders such as Boyloaf, Shoot-at-Sight, Ateke, and other ex-agitators—who recently held a press conference advocating for the decentralization of pipeline surveillance contracts—must not be taken for granted. He warned that ignoring these influential stakeholders could pose risks to the fragile peace and security framework in the region.

Paebi Samson further noted that a more inclusive, state-by-state allocation of surveillance responsibilities would foster unity, reduce tensions, and drive sustainable development across Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Ondo, and other Niger Delta states.

He therefore urged the Federal Government to act swiftly in reviewing the current pipeline surveillance structure to ensure fairness, inclusiveness, and alignment with the broader objective of national security.