Niger Delta Stakeholders Firmly Reject Calls to Decentralize Pipeline Surveillance Contract
In a strong and unified stance, former militants and key stakeholders from the Niger Delta region have categorically rejected recent calls to decentralize the crucial pipeline surveillance contract currently awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL). The group has described such proposals as not only premature but also potentially detrimental to the hard-won national security achievements in the volatile oil-producing region.
Communiqué Issues Stern Warning Against Contract Alteration
This firm position was formally articulated in a detailed communiqué released following a high-level meeting of the Board of Trustees (BoT), the Critical Stakeholders Forum (CSF), and the Foundation for Heritage Advancement and Development in the Niger Delta (FHADND). The significant gathering took place in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, bringing together influential voices from across the region.
The stakeholders issued a clear warning that any attempt to alter the existing operational framework, which is under the leadership of the renowned figure Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, could seriously undermine the substantial gains recorded in the ongoing fight against rampant oil theft and persistent pipeline vandalism. They emphasized that the current structure has proven effective and should not be tampered with lightly.
Praise for Presidential and Legislative Support
The group extended commendation to President Bola Tinubu for his decisive action in approving the renewal of the contract with Tantita Security Services. They noted that this presidential decision accurately reflects the wishes and aspirations of the majority of Niger Delta stakeholders and residents, who have directly benefited from the markedly improved security situation and subsequent developmental strides.
Furthermore, the stakeholders lauded the National Assembly for passing a formal vote of confidence in Tantita’s operations and in Tompolo’s strategic leadership. This legislative endorsement, they argued, reinforces the legitimacy and effectiveness of the current security arrangement.
The communiqué was signed by several prominent figures, including:
- Reuben Clifford Wilson, Chairman of the Board of Trustees
- Ezekiel Akpasibewei, representing First Phase Ex-Militant Leaders
- Francis Waiwei, Executive Director of FHADND
- Nature Dumale Kieghe, Secretary of the Board of Trustees
- Representatives from various Niger Delta states
Contrasting Past Chaos with Present Stability
The stakeholders provided a stark recollection of the region's troubled past, highlighting that prior to Tantita’s engagement, the Niger Delta was plagued by severe challenges, including:
- Rampant oil theft and illegal bunkering activities
- Widespread and damaging pipeline vandalism
- Significant environmental degradation and pollution
They noted that since the firm commenced its specialized operations, these destructive activities have seen a significant and measurable reduction. This success is attributed to improved coordination between security actors, enhanced local intelligence gathering, and heightened, technology-driven surveillance capabilities along the pipeline networks.
Risks of Decentralization Outlined
The group issued a serious caution, arguing that decentralizing the contract could lead to a host of negative consequences, including:
- Operational confusion and logistical inefficiencies
- Unhealthy rivalry and conflict among multiple security actors
- Weakened accountability and oversight mechanisms
- Critical security lapses that could be easily exploited by resilient criminal elements
They stressed that maintaining a unified command structure is essential for continued success.
Traditional Rulers Echo Support for Tantita
In a related development, following the National Assembly's vote of confidence, traditional rulers and community leaders across the Niger Delta have added their voices, calling for sustained and unwavering support for Tantita Security Services in its vital role of safeguarding the nation's critical oil and gas infrastructure.
These leaders observed that the company’s direct involvement in pipeline protection has brought noticeable and tangible improvements to the socio-economic conditions of oil-bearing host communities, fostering a more stable environment for development.
Speaking on this positive trend, His Majesty King Monday Obukohwo Whiskey, the Ovie of Great Idjerhe Kingdom in Delta State and Chairman of the Host Communities Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (HOSCON), described the legislative vote of confidence as a welcome and reinforcing development. He stated that while there is always room for improvement in any operation, criticism should be constructive and not driven by malicious blackmail or orchestrated media propaganda.
Amnesty Programme Administrator Commends Tompolo
Meanwhile, Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has publicly commended High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), Chairman of Tantita Security Services, for his pivotal role in sustaining peace and fostering development in the Niger Delta and across Nigeria.
Otuaro described Tompolo as a foremost Niger Delta freedom fighter, a dedicated patriot, and a distinguished son of Nigeria, the region, and the Ijaw nation. He highlighted that Tompolo’s contributions to peace, security, stability, and regional development are both remarkable and deeply impactful.
While congratulating him on his recent 55th birthday, Otuaro further characterized Tompolo not only as a visionary community builder but also as a compassionate and humane leader whose extensive philanthropic gestures have positively touched countless lives and communities across the region and the nation at large.
