The campaign of slander against TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited, controlled by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, has been denounced by the Coalition of Civil Rights Organizations for Good Governance.
The group, led by Comrade Jude Ochiagha as its coordinator and Kolawole Abe as its secretary general, claimed to have seen a concerted assault of deceptive media reports, sponsored commentary, and protest calls that were intended to undermine TANTITA’s credibility, operating mandate, and integrity.
It stated that these attacks, which are veiled in dramatic stories and unsupported claims, are merely the desperate actions of well-known oil thieves, economic saboteurs, and their associates whose illicit businesses have been severely hampered by TANTITA’s operational effectiveness.
“It is a matter of public record that crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism had reached alarming proportions in the Niger Delta prior to the Federal Government’s engagement of TANTITA, seriously undermining Nigeria’s economy and posing a threat to national security,” the group stated.
However, there has been a noticeable increase in oil production output, a sharp decline in illegal bunkering activities, and improved cooperation among security stakeholders since the company was given the crucial duty of pipeline surveillance and protection in the Niger Delta region.
In order to protect vital oil infrastructure, TANTITA has shown professionalism and dedication by collaborating closely with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and other marine security organizations.
Nigeria’s ability to consistently achieve its production limit and rebuild trust in the country’s oil and gas industry is directly attributable to the company’s efforts.
Therefore, it is not shocking that those whose illegal wealth was based on the looting of our country’s resources are now using agitation, disinformation, and extortion to make up lost ground.
“Their protests against TANTITA are not impulsive or selfless; rather, they are well-thought-out actions intended to jeopardize national security and undo the tremendous progress made in the war against oil theft.
We urge His Excellency Bola Tinubu, pertinent federal authorities, and important players in the Niger Delta to continue being watchful and perceptive as civil society organizations committed to good governance and the rule of law.
“The Federal Government must resist pressure from criminal groups attempting to undermine current security measures and reforms in the oil industry.
“In the Niger Delta, we implore opinion leaders, youth organizations, traditional institutions, and community leaders to oppose being utilized as sabotage tools. A key component of national prosperity and a shared responsibility is the preservation of oil infrastructure.
“The Coalition reaffirms its unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration and all institutions that are truly dedicated to protecting Nigeria’s economic lifelines.”
“We acknowledge and applaud the tenacity, bravery, and patriotism of TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited’s chairman, vice chairman, chief executive officer, management, officers, and men.
Given the aforementioned, we hereby give the Chairman, Vice Chairman, CEO, management, and every employee of TANTITA Security Services a resounding vote of confidence.
“We applaud their steadfast commitment to duty and their quantifiable efforts in Nigeria’s fight against oil theft.
“We urge all well-meaning Nigerians to oppose polarizing propaganda, back legitimate security measures, and unite in protecting our national resources.”
