Olu of Warri Denies N2.7tn Pipeline Deal, Demands Evidence From Dokubo

Olu of Warri Denies N2.7tn Pipeline Deal, Demands Evidence From Dokubo

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has rejected an allegation by Niger Delta activist Asari Dokubo that the monarch receives N2.7 trillion annually from pipeline surveillance contracts, challenging him to produce documentary evidence to support the claim.

The monarch’s position was conveyed by his Sole Representative to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and its joint venture partners, Prince Collins Edema.

Edema described the allegation as unfounded and said it had been categorically rejected by the monarch’s representatives.

He challenged Dokubo to provide the documents on which the allegation was based, stressing that claims involving pipeline surveillance contracts should be subjected to proper scrutiny.

Dokubo had made the allegation while discussing pipeline surveillance arrangements in the Niger Delta, questioning why former militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, had faced criticism over pipeline security contracts while, according to him, other individuals were allegedly receiving larger sums.

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Dokubo alleged that the Olu of Warri and Osahon Idahosa were receiving N2.7 trillion annually for protecting oil pipelines.

However, the monarch’s representative rejected the claim and called for evidence to substantiate the allegation.

Edema argued that concerns over pipeline security arrangements should be addressed through relevant contracts, procurement records, corporate documents, government approvals and other verifiable records.

He also said allegations of wrongdoing should be directed to the appropriate government institutions for investigation rather than being settled through public accusations.

The controversy comes amid continued scrutiny of pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta, where private security arrangements involving former militant leaders and other stakeholders have generated public debate.

The security of oil pipelines remains a major issue for Nigeria because disruptions to crude oil production can affect government revenue, foreign exchange earnings and the broader economy.

The Olu of Warri’s representatives therefore maintained that anyone making claims about the monarch’s involvement in pipeline surveillance contracts should provide documentary evidence to support the allegations.

The monarch’s office has continued to deny the N2.7 trillion claim.

Olu of Warri Denies N2.7tn Pipeline Deal, Demands Evidence From Dokubo