Former leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND), Ateke Tom has advised President-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari not to stop the pipeline security contracts recently awarded by President Goodluck Jonathan.
Tom made the call while granting an interview to Vanguard newspaper.
He said: “I am sure he [Buhari] knows what to do, he knows what the country expect from him. He should give all Nigerians opportunity to contribute meaningfully to his government,” he told Vanguard in an interview.
“Let me just add that the Niger Delta still needs serious attention. He should develop the region. Later, we will tell him some of the things we expect him to give special attention to,”he adds.
“I dont see militancy coming back again in the region. Niger Delta will be very peaceful than what it was under President Jonathan.”
“We don’t have any reason to resume militancy in the region. So there will be peace.”
“Those who got the job are taking care of the pipelines and are doing the job commendably. If he cancels it I dont see who else can do it better. We hail from these places where the pipelines run through and so are very familiar with the terrain. He should allow us continue to render this service to the country.”
He also advised the president-elect to create jobs for people.
“This will reduce crime. Job will keep them busy. When the youths are engaged their minds are busy. When they are idle they think of bad things sometimes. So jobs will help.”
