MICHAEL IKEOGWU -WARRI
The Chief Executive Officer of Tantita Security Services Ltd., High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo has accused the Nigerian Navy of sabotaging efforts by security agencies towards combating crude oil theft, describing it as a major hindrance to protecting Nigeria’s oil pipelines.
Tompolo made the statement while playing host to the national leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by its President, Mazi Afam Isigwe (SAN), to Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area, Delta State.
He stated that the confrontation between Tantita Security and the Navy has complicated the company’s operations in it’s avowed determination to reduce oil theft in the region to the nearest minimum.
“While doing this work, we have stepped on a lot of toes. Most times, Tantita Security faces confrontations with the Navy. If we arrest anyone today, lawyers from Abuja, Lagos, or Ibadan are quickly engaged to defend them”, he said.
He lamented that despite recent achievements in the area of increase in daily oil production in the country, which is currently 1.8 million barrels per day (mbpd), security challenges persist.
“Just a few days ago, our team intercepted a vessel in Port Harcourt, and the Navy opened fire on Tantita Security while we were accompanied by the Police, DSS, and Civil Defence,” he revealed.
Tompolo appealed to the NBA for support in holding offenders accountable, adding, “If we are not careful, this country may not have the resources to sustain itself. A bag of rice now costs over ₦100,000. We are doing our part locally, but we need help from the top to bring about justice”.
The NBA National President, Mazi Afam Isigwe praised Tantita Security for its efforts in securing Nigeria’s oil pipelines and called for stronger partnerships to combat oil theft.
“This visit has given us first hand knowledge of the challenges faced here and the significant impact Tantita is making in protecting the national economy”, he said.
The NBA leader also emphasized the need for reforms in judicial processes, stating, “We urge judges to physically inspect disputed areas before delivering rulings, especially in cases involving land or community matters. This will ensure fairness and eliminate biases.”
NBA pledged to intensify its advocacy against oil theft, citing the resolution passed at its recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting.
Isigwe noted that oil theft has negatively impacted Nigeria’s foreign reserves and hampered the government’s ability to deliver democratic dividends to the populace.
“We understand the importance of increase in oil production for our national economy. With production now climbing above 1.8 mbpd for the first time in years, there is hope of reaching 2 mbpd by December. This will reduce borrowing and improve infrastructure development,” he added.
The NBA delegation included prominent members such as Sebastine Anyia, Mrs. Bolatumi Animashaun, Dr. Mobolaji Idris Ojibara, and Mrs. Blessing Imo Udofa-Poromon, who collectively affirmed their commitment to supporting oil-producing communities like Gbaramatu in tackling the menace of oil theft.
