A notable Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress, ONC, has passed a vote of confidence on Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited, PINL, over its capacity and adherence to rules of engagement in its areas of operation.
The Congress said it notes with keen interest the investigation commenced by the House of Representatives Committee following a petition received on September 15, 2026, from the Niger Delta Oil-Producing Communities Reform Movement, ND-OCRIM, seeking a forensic audit and accountability of PINL.
ONC, as the voice of over 2 million people whose lands host critical national pipeline assets including the Trans Niger Pipeline, TNP, Eastern Gas Pipeline and OMLs, said it welcomes any transparent probe that will strengthen national energy security.
The group acknowledged the efforts of PINL in curbing pipeline vandalism and improving crude evacuation in the Orashi corridor, as previously commended by the House Committee on Petroleum (Midstream) in June 2026.
However, it lamented that host communities still suffer despite surveillance contracts worth billions. According to ONC, Orashi communities still face environmental pollution, unemployment, lack of direct employment of Orashi youths in surveillance jobs, poor welfare for field surveillance guards and absence of a community development component.
The Congress said it is concerned about allegations raised in the petition concerning total funds received by PINL, its utilisation and alleged luxury expenditures linked to its Managing Director, Dr. Osahon Okunbor. It noted that as a law-abiding body, it believes these remain allegations until proven, but must be transparently investigated in line with Section 88 of the Constitution.
ONC therefore made the following demands:
It called on the Committee to direct NNPCL and PINL to disclose total funds paid to PINL from inception, a breakdown of utilisation and tax compliance.
On host community audit, it urged the Committee to invite surveillance personnel from Orashi communities to testify on their salaries, insurance, safety kits and working conditions.
On Orashi content, it demanded that PINL and NNPCL reserve a minimum of 60 per cent of surveillance guard jobs, supervisors and subcontractor slots for youths of pipeline-impacted Orashi communities in ONELGA, Ahoada East, Ahoada West and Abua/Odual.
It also called for environmental and security accountability through assessment of actual reduction in oil theft and spills in the ONC area since PINL’s engagement.
The group agreed with the Chairman, Hon. Dekor Robinson, that allegations must not be treated as facts, stressing that it demands fair hearing for all parties and protection of indigenous surveillance companies that are performing.
It further recommended that 5 per cent of surveillance contract value be paid directly into Host Community Development Trust Funds as required by the PIA 2021.