By Omoniyi David
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, has called on communities along the Trans Niger Pipeline to protect oil infrastructure and support the fight against pipeline vandalism and gas flaring.
Speaking through Navy Capt. Lassie Ozovehe at a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt organised by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Musa said the destruction of oil assets mostly affects locals, not oil companies.
“These assets are on your land. You benefit from them, so you must protect them and safeguard yourselves from the hazards,” he said, commending PINL’s record of zero infractions on the pipeline.
PINL’s Community Relations Consultant, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, said the firm had expanded surveillance across the Eastern Corridor and seen a sharp drop in vandalism due to community cooperation.
He however noted challenges including poor information sharing, attacks on surveillance personnel, insider threats, and local leadership disputes.
Keynote speaker Mr. Otoyo Sunday decried ongoing gas flaring and urged residents to protect the environment, warning that illegal refining and uncontrolled gas releases pose long-term health dangers.
Ijaw Youth Council (Eastern Zone) Chairman, Mr. Datolu Sokubo, linked pipeline security to development.
He urged the government to invest more in education and healthcare, stressing that true security requires community buy-in.
Traditional Ruler of Ekpeye Land, Eze Kelvin Anugwu, represented by Dr. Patricia Ogbonnaya, also condemned gas flaring and urged oil companies to own up to the impact of their operations.
“We keep advising our youths against bunkering. But oil firms must take responsibility for the long-term effects of their operations,” he said.
Other traditional leaders present called for better welfare for surveillance teams, local chiefs, and communities to help maintain peace and protect oil infrastructure.
