Civil Society Coalition Urges Nigerian Government to Halt Use of Niger Delta Militants for Pipeline Security




In a bold statement, a coalition of 95 civil society organizations has called on the Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, to end the practice of employing armed militants to protect oil pipelines in the Niger Delta. The coalition warned that continuing this policy risks reigniting armed conflict and destabilizing the already volatile region.

The Civil Society Coalition for Mandate Protection (CSC-MAP) and the National Coalition of Civil Society Groups (NCCSG) issued a joint statement on Wednesday, highlighting the dangers posed by entrusting militants with critical national infrastructure. They expressed concerns over reports that a particular militant leader is allegedly using profits from these contracts to import illicit weapons, threatening Nigeria’s national security.

Call for Professional Security Engagement

The coalition urged the government to partner with indigenous, professional security firms dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s oil assets. “It is not right to fund armed separatist groups that have previously fought against the Nigerian state,” the statement read. The groups emphasized that these militants, once declared wanted by the government, should not be empowered further.

Allegations of Corruption and Weapon Smuggling

The coalition made serious allegations, claiming that the militant leader is involved in bribing top government officials, including members of the National Assembly, to secure pipeline protection contracts. They also alleged that a former governor of Bauchi State is complicit in this scheme. According to the coalition, the militant’s aides are currently in Abuja distributing large sums of money to influence officials at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and within the presidency.

Renewed Call for EFCC Investigation

The coalition called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to revive its investigation into Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo. In 2016, Tompolo was declared wanted by the EFCC for alleged involvement in a N45.9 billion fraud case involving the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). The coalition criticized the government's continued engagement with Tompolo, arguing that his past crimes must not be overlooked.

Appeal for National Security

In their statement, the coalition warned that engaging militants in security roles could divide Nigeria and lead to renewed violence. They urged the government to prioritize the safety and well-being of the Niger Delta’s genuine representatives, many of whom have faced threats from militant groups.

As the coalition prepares to send a letter to President Tinubu and the National Assembly, they reiterated their commitment to exposing the militant’s alleged crimes and ensuring that Nigeria’s oil resources are protected by legitimate security forces rather than armed groups with questionable motives.

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