CDHR Delta Faults State Government’s Purchase Of Vessels, Says It’s Misplaced Priority

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), Delta State Branch, has faulted the decision of the Delta State Government to procure armed vessels for the protection of critical oil and gas assets and the fight against oil theft and illegal bunkering, describing the move as a misplaced priority.

The group, in a statement signed by its Chairman, Comr. Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Godswill Nosa Overseey, on Thursday, August 20, 2026, questioned the rationale behind the decision, noting that the Federal Government had already contracted Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited to survey and secure oil facilities.

According to CDHR, Tantita has invested heavily in modern technology, boats, drones and manpower for the protection of oil and gas facilities, with results being seen in recent times.

The organisation argued that the security of oil and gas infrastructure is on the Exclusive Legislative List and questioned why the Delta State Government would duplicate a responsibility already being handled at the federal level.

“Why is Delta State duplicating the same role?” the group asked, while calling for transparency over the purpose of the vessel procurement.

CDHR also expressed concern that the scheme could potentially be used to secure the movement of crude oil out of the country for what it described as dubious purposes, stressing the need for the state government to clearly explain its intentions.

The group said if the Delta State Government was genuinely interested in intervening in federal projects located in the state, it should engage the Federal Government on the revival of the Delta Steel Company (DSC), Aladja, and the full commencement of operations at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Warri Port.

According to CDHR, the revival of DSC and the activation of Warri Port could create thousands of jobs and generate wealth for Deltans.

“If the intention of the Delta State Government is genuine, resources should be channelled to contemporary technology like drones and helicopters to patrol riverine areas,” the group stated.

It further urged the government to prioritise industrialisation and job creation, arguing that employment opportunities remain one of the surest ways to discourage oil theft, vandalism and other forms of economic crime.

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The human rights organisation therefore called on the Delta State Government to reconsider its approach and focus on projects that would have a direct impact on the livelihood of Deltans.

“Spending heavily on armed vessels while DSC remains moribund and NPA Warri is idle is a clear case of misplaced priority,” CDHR said.

The group urged the state government to redirect resources towards projects that would promote economic development, create jobs and improve the welfare of the people.