“Only Isokos Can Truly Protect Isoko Pipelines” – Isoko group protests in Abuja

…… Demands pipeline contract review

July 04, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Isoko Renaissance Movement (IRM) staged a peaceful protest in Abuja, demanding a review of pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta region.

The group is calling for direct oversight of pipelines passing through Isoko land, citing the community’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s oil output.

IRM leaders Comrade Jezreel Enahoro and Mr. Uzezi Omiugho addressed the National Assembly, highlighting the disparity between the Isoko Nation’s oil production and its marginalization in politics and development.

They pointed out that the Isoko people account for 28% of Nigeria’s national oil output and over 40% in Delta State.

The protesters expressed dissatisfaction with the 2022 pipeline surveillance contract, which was awarded without consulting the Isoko people.

They demanded a fresh, transparent contract process with genuine Isoko representation.

“Only Isokos can truly protect Isoko pipelines. Local involvement guarantees fairness and peace,” Enahoro emphasized.

The IRM is seeking the award of pipeline security contracts to vetted Isoko entities, declaration of a development emergency in the region, and increased federal appointments for Isoko citizens.

Omiugho stressed the group’s desire for peace but warned that patience is limited, urging the government to act quickly to ensure justice and development in Isoko land.