𝗣𝗶𝗽𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄 𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲, 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹𝗿𝘆 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗮---𝗔𝗷𝘂𝗯𝗲

𝗕𝗬 𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗧𝗔 𝗩𝗢𝗜𝗖𝗘,

5𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹, 2026.

NigerDelta Voice had gathered that a prominent Niger Delta ex-militant leader and Chief Executive Officer of Gallery Security Services Limited, SHC Bibopere Ajube, has clarified that the growing call for the review and decentralisation of oil pipeline surveillance contracts is rooted in justice and fairness, not a confrontation with Tantita Security Services Limited or its principal, Government Ekpemupolo.

In a message published by The Sun Online Newspaper, Ajube dismissed claims that the agitation by former militant leaders signals disloyalty to Tompolo, maintaining that his allegiance remains firm.

“My relationship with Tompolo cannot be reduced to blind allegiance at the expense of the very ideals we all fought for,” he said. “I stood up for the broader Ijaw cause such as economic emancipation and justice for our people.”

Ajube, also known as “Shoot-at-Sight,” explained that the push for decentralisation is aimed at ensuring equity, transparency, and compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). He noted that the demand followed a strategic meeting in Rivers State involving notable ex-militant leaders, including Ateke Tom and Victor Ben.

According to him, the objective is to create a balanced system that prevents excessive concentration of control in the region.

“It is about territorial control, security stability, equitable economic distribution, and preventing the dangerous concentration of power,” Ajube stated.

“When a few individuals control both economic resources and security structures across the region, it creates a serious risk.”

Reflecting on his role in the Niger Delta struggle, Ajube stressed that his actions have always been driven by principle rather than personal interest.

“When we confronted multinational oil companies, it was not because pipelines ran through my backyard but because I saw injustice and chose to resist it,” he said. “When I took up arms against the Federal Government, it was not because of where I came from, but because I believed in justice and fairness.”

He also recounted his past efforts in safeguarding Tompolo during a critical period of unrest.

“When Camp 5 was destroyed and many fled, I did not run,” Ajube said. “When Tompolo needed evacuation under life-threatening circumstances, I put my life on the line.”

Ajube further revealed that he voluntarily submitted himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, when several Niger Delta figures were under investigation.

“While others chose resistance, I presented myself for investigation because I believe in accountability and had nothing to hide,” he said, adding that his accounts were later cleared and unfrozen.

He alleged that he was at a point falsely accused of pipeline vandalism and declared wanted in what he described as an attempt to push him back into militancy.

“That plot was clearly designed to lure me back into violence and armed confrontation. However, I refused to be drawn into that trap. I chose peace, dialogue, and lawful engagement,” he added.

Ajube disclosed that he once declined participation in a pipeline surveillance contract under the Presidential Amnesty Programme, insisting on inclusivity.

“I refused to participate because Tompolo’s issues with the Federal Government had not been resolved, and I believed he and others should be included,” he stated.

He maintained that decentralising pipeline surveillance contracts would enhance governance, strengthen security, and promote lasting peace in the Niger Delta.

“For the avoidance of doubt, my commitment to High Chief Government Ekpemupolo remains firm and demonstrable. He remains my leader,” Ajube said. “Should circumstances ever require decisive intervention for his safety or stability, I am one of the first persons he will call upon without hesitation.”