Ex-agitators and key stakeholders in the Niger Delta have firmly opposed calls to decentralise the pipeline surveillance contract currently handled by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, warning that such a move could reverse recent gains in tackling oil theft and insecurity in the region.
This was captured in a press statement in a meeting between members of the Board of Trustees of the Critical Stakeholders Forum and the Foundation for Heritage Advancement and Development in the Niger Delta held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
In the communiqué, the group noted that any change to the current arrangement under the leadership of the Government Ekpemupolo, better known as Tompolo, would be too soon and dangerous for Nigeria’s security. It was stated that the current arrangement had helped to improve surveillance, curtail pipeline vandalism, and boost intelligence within the area.
The group congratulated the president on his decision, saying the move was necessary to further ensure security in the Niger Delta and was in line with the interests of Niger Deltans, who have enjoyed peace following Tantita’s renewed contract. They also applauded the National Assembly for passing a vote of confidence in Tantita.
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Some of those who signed the press statement include BoT Chairman, Reuben Clifford Wilson, former militant Ezekiel Akpasibewei, FHADND Executive Director, Francis Waiwei, and BoT Secretary, Nature Dumale Kieghe.
Recalling the situation prior to the renewal of Tantita’s contract, it was said that the area used to experience widespread oil theft, illegal bunkering, and environmental degradation. They noted that these issues have declined considerably due to better coordination and surveillance.
They warned that decentralising the contract could create rivalry among multiple operators, weaken accountability, and open the door to renewed security breaches.
In a related development, traditional rulers and community leaders across the Niger Delta have also called for continued support for Tantita, following the National Assembly’s endorsement of the company.
The Ovie of Great Idjerhe Kingdom and Chairman of the Host Communities Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, King Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, described the endorsement as a boost to confidence in the company’s work. He stressed that while improvements can always be made, criticism should not be driven by misinformation or vested interests.
Meanwhile, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dr Dennis Brutu Otuaro, commended Tompolo for his role in promoting peace and stability in the region. Congratulating him on his 55th birthday, Otuaro described him as a patriot and community leader whose contributions to development and security in the Niger Delta remain significant.
