The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has rejected allegations by Niger Delta activist Asari Dokubo that he receives ₦2.7 trillion annually from pipeline surveillance contracts, demanding documentary evidence to substantiate the claim.
The controversy has generated reactions across the Niger Delta, with regional organisations warning that unverified allegations could undermine ongoing peace efforts among ethnic communities.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, through his representative to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) and its joint venture partners, Prince Collins Edema, the monarch described the allegation as unfounded.
The palace maintained that allegations involving public contracts should be supported by credible documents rather than speculation.
Asari Dokubo’s ₦2.7tn Pipeline Surveillance Allegation
The dispute began after Asari Dokubo alleged in a viral video that the Olu of Warri and other individuals were receiving approximately ₦2.7 trillion annually for pipeline surveillance activities.
Dokubo questioned criticism directed at Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, whose company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, is involved in protecting oil infrastructure.
He compared the criticism surrounding Tompolo’s contract with arrangements he alleged involved the Olu of Warri and Osahon Okunbo.
However, no independently verified contract documents or financial records have been publicly presented to establish the alleged ₦2.7 trillion annual payment.
The allegations have renewed debate about transparency in the management of Nigeria’s oil pipeline surveillance contracts.
Olu of Warri Challenges Asari Dokubo to Provide Evidence
Responding through Collins Edema, the Olu of Warri categorically rejected the allegation and demanded documentary proof.
The palace argued that the amount involved was substantial and required proper verification.
Edema also called for a distinction between allegations, assumptions and established facts.
According to the statement, concerns over pipeline surveillance contracts should be investigated through relevant government institutions and legal procedures.
The monarch’s representative maintained that Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure remains vital to national economic stability.
He explained that pipeline security directly affects crude oil production, government revenue, foreign exchange earnings and investment confidence.
Niger Delta Groups Warn Against Rising Tensions
The controversy has also attracted reactions from organisations in the Niger Delta.
The Niger Delta Coalition warned that allegations involving the Olu of Warri and pipeline surveillance contracts could worsen existing tensions among Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities.
In a statement reported by TheCable, the coalition called for restraint and urged public figures to avoid statements capable of reopening longstanding ethnic disagreements.
Similarly, the Niger Delta Development Agenda expressed concern over Dokubo’s comments and emphasised the importance of independently verifiable information.
The group said disagreements concerning petroleum-sector contracts should be addressed through established institutions rather than inflammatory public exchanges.
On Thursday, October 8, the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations for Good Governance also defended Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited and its project director, Osahon Okunbo, calling for evidence-based scrutiny of the disputed financial claims.
Pipeline Surveillance Contracts Face Fresh Scrutiny
Pipeline surveillance contracts have remained a subject of public debate because of their role in combating crude oil theft, vandalism and illegal refining activities.
The arrangements involve private security contractors working to protect petroleum infrastructure in parts of the Niger Delta.
However, questions surrounding the costs, beneficiaries and performance of these contracts continue to generate public interest.
The latest disagreement has highlighted renewed calls for greater transparency in the award and management of pipeline security contracts.
Stakeholders have called for relevant procurement records, contract values and performance reports to be examined to determine whether public resources are being properly managed.
While Asari Dokubo’s allegations have attracted widespread attention, the ₦2.7 trillion figure remains unverified.
The Olu of Warri continues to reject the claim, while regional groups are urging all parties to prioritise evidence, accountability and peace in the Niger Delta.
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