Growing insecurity in Pindiga, Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, is being linked to the discovery of crude oil in the Kolmani River II oil field located along the boundary between Gombe and Bauchi states in North-East Nigeria.
Investigations suggest that the oil find has triggered disputes among border communities, with each side claiming ownership of the oil wells in a bid to benefit from tax revenues and federal allocations tied to oil-producing areas.
Oil exploration activities in Kolmani began during the administration of late former President Muhammadu Buhari. Since then, reports of armed attacks, kidnappings, and killings have reportedly increased in communities surrounding the oil field.
Residents believe the economic value of crude oil has drawn criminal elements into the area, worsening insecurity and social tension.
Local leaders, including the Emir of Pindiga, have expressed concern that while oil extraction is ongoing in their land, the communities have yet to see meaningful development such as improved roads, hospitals, or schools.
There are also fears of environmental damage, particularly the pollution of water sources and farmlands, which threatens the livelihoods of farmers and herders. Observers say such environmental pressures could further fuel communal conflict.
Analysts warn that areas rich in natural resources often attract illegal miners, armed groups, and criminal networks seeking to exploit the wealth. Similar patterns have been observed in parts of Zamfara State and in the Niger Delta, where disputes over resource control and environmental degradation have fueled unrest for years.
Experts add that when communities feel excluded from the benefits of resource extraction, frustration among young people can grow, sometimes leading to violence.
The presence of valuable natural resources can also create opportunities for corruption and weaken local security structures, making it easier for criminal groups to establish strongholds.
Globally, extremist groups have been known to exploit natural resources such as oil and minerals to fund their operations in conflict zones.
Stakeholders say addressing the situation in Pindiga will require a combination of improved security, fair revenue distribution, environmental protection, and visible development projects to ensure that local communities benefit from the oil discovery rather than suffer from its consequences.
Residents link rising insecurity in Pindiga, Gombe State, to oil exploration activities in the Kolmani River II field along the Gombe Bauchi border.
