Controversy Over Pipeline Surveillance Contract Sparks a Response from OML30 Community Leader

The recent protest surrounding the pipeline surveillance contract in the Isoko area of the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 30 has elicited a response from Mr. Odiri Umukoro, a community leader in OML30, Delta State. Umukoro is urging the Joint Venture Partners and Heritage Energy Operational Services Limited (HEOSL) to dismiss the protest and proceed with the awarded contract.

The protest, allegedly backed by Isoko youths, took place last Saturday at Oleh. Umukoro contends that the protest was engineered to contest the award of the pipeline surveillance contract to Comrade Zino Onaemor’s company, following a transparent tender process. Umukoro asserts that Onaemor is eminently qualified to handle the Infield Surveillance contract in the Isoko axis and should be allowed to execute the job.

In his address to the Joint Venture Partners, NNPC Exploration and Production Limited (NNPC E&P Limited) and Shoreline Natural Resources Limited (SNRL), Umukoro implores them not to succumb to the pressure of the protest, which he denounces as ill-advised and mischievous. He underscores the significance of upholding the integrity of the tender process, stating that only the winning bidders should be issued award letters. Umukoro emphasizes that no form of sponsored protest should influence the awarding of the contract to a company that did not emerge as the winner in the tender process.

Moreover, Umukoro underscores the importance of awarding contracts based on track records, citing Comrade Zino Onaemor’s experience and commendable track record in pipeline surveillance as credentials that make him a suitable candidate for the contract.

It is evident from Umukoro’s statement that the controversy surrounding the pipeline surveillance contract has raised concerns among the stakeholders involved. His appeal to the Joint Venture Partners and HEOSL to remain resolute in their decision underscores the significance of adhering to a fair and transparent tender process. The involvement of community leaders in addressing such issues emphasizes the importance of maintaining robust relationships between companies and the local communities in which they operate.

As the situation unfolds, it is imperative for all parties to uphold the principles of fairness and transparency in business dealings, ensuring that contracts are awarded based on merit and track record. The outcome of this appeal will undoubtedly have implications for future business operations in the OML30 area, underscoring the importance of responsible and ethical business practices.