Arewa Youths Reveal Alarming Human Rights Violations In Pipeline Protection Operations

Arewa Youths Reveal Alarming Human Rights Violations In Pipeline Protection Operations

The Arewa Youth Alliance for Progress and Development (AYAPD) has strongly criticized the human rights abuses allegedly perpetrated by private security firms hired by the Federal Government to safeguard critical infrastructure, particularly oil pipelines, in the Niger Delta region……READ MORE 

During a media briefing, AYAPD convener Umar Babayaro revealed that the group has received numerous reports of unlawful arrests and detentions of innocent locals by these private security outfits. Babayaro highlighted several disturbing cases, including Moses Richard from Shekri, and Peter and Boma Samuel, who were reportedly beaten and detained for weeks. Another victim, Jolomi Abechukwu from Tisin Community, along with his friend Bade, was allegedly held captive in Oporoza after being arrested on December 2, 2024, and released in January 2025.

“These violations, captured in trending social media videos, are deeply concerning,” Babayaro stated. He called on government agencies, NGOs, and international organizations to intervene before the situation escalates into a larger crisis.

AYAPD has demanded a thorough investigation into the activities of all private security firms operating in the Niger Delta. Babayaro emphasized that while the pipeline surveillance contracts are critical, they do not grant these firms the authority to arrest or detain citizens—powers reserved solely for official security agencies.

“We urge the Federal Government to address this alarming trend and prevent further abuses. If unchecked, the youths in the Niger Delta will continue to suffer under these so-called security outfits,” Babayaro concluded.