BY NONYELUM JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
Arewa group under the auspices of Northern Emancipation Network (NEN) has expressed its full support for the federal government’s decision to split the pipeline surveillance contract, countering opposition from Arewa leader Musa Saidu.
Recalled that Arewa leader, Alhaji Musa Saidu had opposed the decision of the federal government to split the Surveillance job earlier awarded to Tantita security services Nigeria Limited.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the NEN, Suleiman Abbah decribed Saidu as a paid agent of destabilization.
“We firmly believes that Saidu’s opposition is driven by ulterior motives, questioning his association with former militant leader Tompolo”.
“Tompolo has a history of undermining national security, and Saidu’s alignment with him suggests a potential conflict of interest. This casts doubt on the authenticity of Saidu’s opposition,” Abbah said.Furthermore, the Northern Emancipation Network emphasizes the importance of stability and security in the region.
“The pipeline surveillance contract is crucial for safeguarding the nation’s oil infrastructure, which is vital for economic growth and development. Splitting the contract ensures a more efficient and effective surveillance system, reducing the risk of sabotage and theft”.
“Saidu’s opposition disregards the need for enhanced security measures, potentially jeopardizing the region’s economic stability.The self-proclaimed Arewa leader Musa Saidu’s challenge to the federal government’s decision to split the pipeline surveillance job is concerning.
“Firstly, Saidu’s association with Tompolo raises doubts about his intentions. Tompolo, a former militant leader, has a history of engaging in activities that undermine national security”.
“Therefore, Saidu’s alignment with Tompolo suggests a potential conflict of interest, casting doubt on the authenticity of his opposition.”Secondly, Saidu’s challenge fails to consider the importance of stability and security in the Niger Delta region.
“Splitting the contract allows for multiple security agencies to be involved, increasing the overall surveillance capacity. This approach ensures a more robust and comprehensive security system, minimizing the risk of attacks and theft.
“The Northern region, like any other part of the country, deserves a secure environment to foster economic growth and protect the livelihoods of its people, by splitting the contract, the government promotes transparency and accountability in the bidding process.
“This approach allows for fair competition among security agencies, ensuring that the most qualified and capable organizations are entrusted with the responsibility of pipeline surveillance.
“This fosters a sense of trust and confidence in the government’s decision-making process.Splitting the contract creates opportunities for multiple security agencies to participate, promoting healthy competition and economic growth within the region.
“This approach encourages the development of local security firms, leading to job creation and skill enhancement. It also reduces the monopoly of a single company, allowing for a more diverse and inclusive business environment”.
“It is suspicious for Saidu to advocate in favor of a Niger Delta faction whereas his voice heard on his own Northern region has been plagued by a series of security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and communal clashes”.
