We’re neutral in implementing pipelines protection in Niger Delta, says PINL

The Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) says it stays neutral while carrying out pipelines protection contracts in the Niger Delta region.

Benson Onuwaje and Akpos Mezeh, Delta PINL coordinator and PINL spokesperson respectively, in a statement on Friday, said the company stands for integrity.

The company said reports that PINL is biased in implementing contracts were untrue.

“Ordinarily, the management of PINL would not have engaged in a public dispute with them, so as not to give them undeserved attention and publicity,” the statement reads.

“However, lies, if not corrected, may be taken as truth so we find it necessary to address these allegations.

“We are not here to shy away from scrutiny; instead, we challenge those who are the real instigators behind these falsehoods to have the courage to reveal their true identities; this will enable us to invite them to a roundtable engagement with the relevant authorities.

“During this meeting, we can discuss the exceptional performance of Pipeline Infrastructures Nigeria Limited, supported by concrete facts and figures.

“We categorically reject this false and fabricated news circulating about our contracts.

“We implore those making these baseless claims to educate themselves on the intricacies of our operations before making unfounded accusations.

“If anyone wishes to discuss these matters, we invite them to witness first-hand the facilities we’ve established in Trans-Forcados, NNPC, and MM40, all of which have brought peace to the region.”

PINL said it believes in inclusivity as the Niger Delta region does not belong to any particular group but for all.

“As part of our engagement, we have provided boats and created employment opportunities for the youth in the communities on our rights of way and others in the catchment areas,” the statement added.

“These resources are integral to our operations and underscore our dedication to community development.

“Inclusivity is crucial in the Niger Delta and we should learn how to accommodate one another without resorting to media blackmail.”