Esther Nwafor, Yenagoa
The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has issued a strong warning to individuals spreading lies and slander against the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL).
In a statement signed by High Chief Thompson Fuoye Robert, Vice President of MOSIEND, the group condemned the rise of unfounded accusations aimed at the Olu of Warri and PINL, describing the actions of the instigators as shameful and backward.
MOSIEND praised PINL as an effective pipeline surveillance company, highlighting its record in pipeline security, transparency, and community involvement, noting that PINL holds monthly meetings with stakeholders and acts on community concerns.
High Chief Fuoye emphasized that the Niger Delta belongs to all its inhabitants and that companies have the right to operate lawfully in the region.
He urged critics to focus on creating legitimate businesses rather than undermining successful companies.
MOSIEND issued a final warning to those inciting division and unrest, asserting that the group will defend the integrity of its leaders and allies.
These unwarranted attacks are becoming unbearable,” High Chief Fuoye stated. “We will no longer stand by while a few misinformed individuals try to tarnish the names of respected leaders and institutions.
“Let it be known that the Olu of Warri and the owners of PINL are true sons of the Niger Delta,” he said.
“They have every constitutional and moral right to operate anywhere in the region. Their presence should not be politicized or tribalized.
“PINL is the only surveillance company that holds monthly meetings with stakeholders in all operational areas. Community concerns are not just heard they are acted upon. The company pays salaries on time, delivers real results, and has earned the total trust of its client, NNPC Limited.
”High Chief Fuoye linked the increasing resentment toward the company to jealousy and frustration, urging critics to focus on creating legitimate businesses instead of trying to undermine those making positive impacts.
“Pipeline security is fundamentally a community-based operation. If a company is not doing well, the local communities directly impacted should speak out not former agitators, youth leaders, or outsiders with no stake in the affected areas.
”He also underscored the shared ownership of the region: “No single person or ethnic group, owns the Niger Delta. It belongs to all of us. Any company especially one run by Niger Deltans has the right to operate anywhere in the region, as long as it does so lawfully and respectfully.
” Enough is enough. We will no longer stand by while a few misinformed individuals try to tarnish the names of respected leaders and institutions,” High Chief Fuoye stated.
