Niger Delta Forum Exposes Termination of $3.9M Contract Amid Allegations of Incompetence
WARRI/Nigeria: The Niger Delta Stakeholders’ Forum (NDSF) has brought to light allegations of incompetence and non-performance against Pipelines Infrastructures Nigerian Limited (PINL), owned by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwase III.
The group asserts that these accusations led to the termination of a significant $3.9 million monthly contract by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).
In a statement released on Saturday and signed by Chief Julius Daukoru, the NDSF emphasizes that the issues surrounding PINL’s handling of the Trans-Forcados Pipelines network system surveillance and protection contract cannot be pinned on Chief Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, and his security firm, Tanitita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
Daukoru asserts that blaming Tanitita for PINL’s losses is unfounded.
Furthermore, the NDSF highlights similar concerns regarding PINL’s management of the Rivers State pipelines contract, alleging negligence, dereliction of duty, and incompetence.
The group contends that PINL’s lack of on-ground presence has left its operational areas porous and vulnerable to oil theft.
Daukoru frowned at the Olu of Warri for attempting to shift blame onto Tompolo’s Tanitita, urging the monarch to address the accusations of incompetence and incapacity directly.
He criticizes the diversion of the narrative into what he describes as “worthless diatribes and ethnic smearing,” detrimental to the peace and harmony in Warri and its environs.
Moreover, Daukoru refutes allegations made by faceless groups associated with the Olu of Warri, stating that these accusations lack credibility without proper proof and authentication.
He underscores that the focus should remain on PINL’s performance and contractual obligations, rather than engaging in baseless accusations and propaganda.
In a notable rebuttal, a prominent Itsekiri figure, Mr. Godwin Ebosa, acknowledges the benefits derived from Tanitita’s operations, contradicting claims of marginalization.
Ebosa’s publication in the Vanguard newspaper further undermines attempts to vilify Tanitita and Tompolo, affirming the efficacy of their security measures in safeguarding oil assets.
Ultimately, the NDSF emphasizes that PINL’s termination of the contract was a consequence of its own shortcomings, not the fault of Tanitita.
The group calls for accountability and transparency in addressing the issues at hand, stressing that truth and facts should prevail over misleading narratives.
