Ondo Monarchs Urge Tinubu to Decentralize Oil Surveillance

Monarchs from the Ilaj Local Government Area in Ondo State have formally appealed to President Bola Tinubu to decentralize the surveillance of oil pipelines. In a letter addressed to the President and made available to journalists on Friday, the monarchs, led by Oba Obafemi Ogbaro, emphasized that the current centralized surveillance framework restricts local participation, creating risks for community harmony and the protection of national assets.

They acknowledged the federal government's efforts to secure vital oil infrastructure but highlighted that the existing arrangements are insufficient, particularly for Ondo State. The monarchs noted that fewer than 100 youths are currently involved in surveillance operations, leading to complaints about unpaid salaries and the infiltration of unfamiliar actors linked to illegal activities such as crude theft.

They urged the President to review the surveillance operations to ensure credible local stakeholder involvement and stabilize coastal communities. The letter reflects a broader concern for the economic survival of the region and the need for effective governance in oil pipeline security.