Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) has warned its contractors and surveillance teams against acts of sabotage and negligence in the protection of oil pipelines along the Trans Niger Pipeline (TNP) Eastern Corridor.
The warning was issued by the General Manager, Community and Stakeholder Relations, Dr. Akpos Mezeh, during a monthly stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Mezeh stressed that acts of collusion, sabotage, or negligence would not be tolerated, citing recent incidents of attempted crude oil theft in Rivers and Bayelsa States.
He disclosed that at the Atali axis in Rivers State, two tankers were intercepted while attempting to load crude oil, an operation foiled through intelligence efforts.
“Preliminary findings point to a possible coordinated conspiracy. Once investigations are concluded, all those found culpable will be brought to justice. No one will be spared,” he said.
He also referenced a separate incident in Bayelsa State involving negligence by surveillance guards, describing it as unacceptable.
Mezeh warned that any contractor found complicit in sabotage or negligence would face contract termination and prosecution.
He noted that PINL’s surveillance efforts have contributed to increased oil and gas production, attributing the success to sustained engagement with host communities.
According to him, community cooperation remains critical to protecting national infrastructure and ensuring economic stability.
Also speaking, the Head of Field Operations for the Eastern Corridor at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Project Monitoring Office, Akponime Omojevwhe, raised concerns over reported negligence in parts of Obio/Akpor and Emohua Local Government Areas.
He warned that contractors who fail to prevent sabotage in their areas would be issued non-performance certificates.
Omojevwhe noted that most contractors and surveillance personnel are drawn from host communities, stressing the importance of accountability and proper vetting of guards.
He urged stakeholders to remain vigilant against activities that could undermine collaboration between communities, government, and security operators.
Meanwhile, the Eze Ekpeye-Logbo, King Kevin Anugwo, represented by Dr. Patricia Ogbonnaya, commended PINL for improving the local environment, noting the return of aquatic life previously affected by oil pollution.
Blessing Ibunge
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