Dokubo’s Pipeline Contract Claims Raise Fresh Questions on Niger Delta Security

Asari Dokubo’s claims about pipeline surveillance payments have renewed debate over transparency, public spending and security in the Niger Delta. In a viral video, he alleged that Osahon Idahosa and the Olu of Warri receive about ₦2.7 trillion for pipeline protection, but he did not provide documents to support the figure and gave conflicting accounts of whether it was paid monthly or yearly. Questions about surveillance contracts are legitimate, especially in a region affected by crude theft, vandalism and production disruptions. However, allegations involving major public funds should be tested against official records, contract terms and independent oversight rather than unverified figures that could worsen regional or communal tensions. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company engaged Tantita Security Services for pipeline surveillance in 2022, with public reports placing the contract at about ₦48 billion annually. Nigeria’s crude losses from theft and sabotage reportedly fell from 36.69 million barrels in 2022 to 7.68 million barrels in 2023, although several factors may have contributed to the change. The wider focus should be on what government spends on pipeline protection, how contractors are selected, how their performance is measured and whether host communities benefit. Stronger transparency and accountable security arrangements are essential to protecting oil infrastructure and national revenue.

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