Pipeline vandals in the Niger Delta have upgraded their operations, deploying surveillance cameras and advanced weaponry to evade security agencies. Warrendi Enisuoh, Tantita Security Service executive director of operations and technical services, disclosed these developments on Wednesday.
- +Vandals deploy missiles and CCTV in Niger Delta oil war
Speaking at a parliamentary roundtable on pipeline security organised by the joint House and Senate committees on petroleum, Enisuoh explained that criminals now install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in forests and operational zones.
Speaking at a parliamentary roundtable on pipeline security organised by the joint House and Senate committees on petroleum, Enisuoh explained that criminals now install closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in forests and operational zones. This technology allows syndicates to monitor the movements of security operatives and track approaching personnel to avoid detection.
The vandals have transitioned into a highly organised force, establishing command and control centres to coordinate illegal activities across the region. Enisuoh noted that these groups have further acquired missile launchers capable of targeting aircraft flying over the area, underscoring the growing boldness of their operations.
In response to the rising threat, the National Assembly joint committees on petroleum resources dismissed various petitions challenging existing pipeline surveillance contracts. The committees passed a vote of confidence in Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, national security agencies, and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) for their roles in restoring oil production.
The legislative resolution followed a comprehensive review of stakeholder presentations, which found no merit in allegations raised against the private security firm. Henry Okojie, House committee on petroleum resources (midstream) chairman, moved the motion during the session.
Over 300 lawmakers endorsed a unanimous vote of confidence in Tantita, supporting its continued role in protecting critical national infrastructure. Ikenga Ugochinyere, House committee on petroleum resources (downstream) chairman, stated that all allegations were subjected to detailed scrutiny and found to be unsubstantiated.
Ugochinyere dismissed all complaints against the firm, noting that several petitions had emerged amid calls for the decentralisation of pipeline contracts. Jarigbe Jarigbe, Senate committee on petroleum resources (downstream) chairman, emphasised that continuity is essential for sustaining progress in the sector.
“Disrupting a system that is already delivering results would be counterproductive,” Jarigbe said. “Our responsibility is to ensure stability.”
