Communities in Edo that are involved in oil production have begged Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, to include them in the deal to secure oil pipelines in the Niger Delta.
The state's oil-producing villages made the request in a statement released by its spokesperson, Mr. Omoluabi Daggo, on Sunday in Calabar.
However, the communities that were contacted regarding the age of Combine Force Blasters (CFB) claimed they had no objections to Tompolo being given the contract.
They applauded the Federal government's choice to give the contract to a candidate who has the credentials to oversee pipeline security.
Daggo noted that Tompolo is equipped with the history of the area and had been a key player in the struggle for the betterment of the Niger Delta region that produced the “golden egg” that is the country’s mainstay.
“We have no issue with Tompolo being awarded the contract since he is part of us and knows the history of the area as well as knowing what it takes to effectively carry out the assignment.
“Indeed, we, just like other Nigerians with the interest of the country at heart, have been concerned about the level of crude oil theft.
“Apart from its consequences on the revenue stream of the country, vandalisation of pipelines have also affected the environment of the oil producing communities.
“So, let it be noted that we have no problem whatsoever with Tompolo handling the project,” he stated.
Daggo claimed that the contract's exclusion of the oil-producing communities of Edo was their only quibble with it.
He claims that we have been seeing Tompolo host certain states on the topic for a while, with slots going to different groups and militant generals.
“Though we are carefully waiting to hear from him, we are ready to cooperate with him to effectively protect and police the pipelines.
Recall that the former militant general in the area just received a contract from the federal government to monitor pipelines.
The enormous crude oil theft that caused the nation's daily oil production to decline led to the decision to grant the pipeline contract.
Tompolo had requested that everyone understand the pipelines contract on his behalf.
He promised to support everyone, foster a feeling of community among all participants, and make accommodations for the majority of the local populace.