A group known as the Committee for Transparency and Good Governance (CTGG) has issued a strongly worded press statement criticising Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s stance on the pipeline surveillance contract in Delta State, alleging that his position undermines Urhobo interests.
The statement, signed by its National Secretary, Comrade Onos Austin, expressed concern that the governor’s political decisions ahead of 2027 could weaken Urhobo influence in Delta State. It claimed the Urhobo nation, once “a strong and energetic force,” risks being sidelined if local interests are not protected.
The CTGG’s primary critique revolves around the controversial pipeline surveillance contract, which they alleged Governor Oborevwori supports awarding to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a company linked to Tompolo, rather than to an Urhobo indigene. The group argued that this stance diminishes the role of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) and undermines community expectations.
The statement further alleged that Governor Oborevwori remained silent during the Okuama crisis and other security incidents, yet became “proactive” when Urhobo voices opposed the pipeline contract. According to the CTGG, this has raised doubts about his commitment to Urhobo interests.
The group insisted that, in line with the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act 2010 and the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, host communities should play a leading role in safeguarding oil facilities. “The oil facilities and the pipelines are in our communities,” the CTGG stated, adding that awarding such contracts to non-indigenes would not reflect the spirit of the law.
While questioning the governor’s political approach, the CTGG stressed that it would continue to defend Urhobo interests and support alternative leadership if necessary. “Since Governor Oborevwori has chosen a different path, Urhobo people must begin to look toward other sons of Urhobo who can better defend their interests,” the group concluded.
