Niger Delta activist Asari Dokubo has questioned the alleged award of pipeline surveillance contracts to certain individuals and companies, claiming the Olu of Warri and others receive N2.7 trillion annually for protecting oil pipelines.
In a video circulating online, Dokubo spoke in defence of former militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, who has faced criticism over his involvement in pipeline surveillance contracts. He wondered why Tompolo was being singled out while others were allegedly earning far more from similar arrangements.
“So, because I am fighting for freedom, the Olu of Warri can do a contract and have money, but Tompolo cannot do the contract and have his own money. I cannot do it,” he said.
Dokubo alleged that the Olu of Warri and Osahon Idahosa, whom he described as the son of Captain Osa, collect N2.7 trillion yearly for guarding pipelines. “You are talking about Tompolo. What of the Olu of Warri and Osahon, son of Captain Osa, who are collecting N2.7 trillion annually for guarding pipelines? Why did you call them out?” he asked.
He suggested the two were spared public criticism because of their ethnic backgrounds, adding that Tompolo earns less than they do. “They are collecting N2.7 trillion a year. You are calling Tompolo, who is collecting less. I’m not in that contract,” he said.
The activist also argued that contracts meant to benefit the Niger Delta should not go to individuals or companies from other parts of the country. According to him, such contracts would turn into the private wealth of the beneficiaries rather than the region’s resources.
“So, other people from other regions should come and take the contract. When they take it, when Arthur Eze takes that contract, it is not Niger Delta money; it is Arthur Eze’s money,” he said.
Dokubo further claimed that he recently saw a vessel in Nigerian waters bearing the initials “OUK,” which he associated with former Abia State Governor Orji Uzor Kalu. “Yesterday, I saw a vessel. On it was written ‘OUK’, Orji Uzor Kalu, operating in our waters,” he said.
The claims have not been independently verified, and there was no immediate response from the individuals named.
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