By Samuel Ogude
The Itsekiri Coordinators of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd said the people calling for the revocation of the Tantita contract as regards Pipeline Surveillance in Nigeria are driven by personal gains. This was made known at a press briefing today, Wednesday in Ubeji in Warri South LGA, Delta State which was drafted in communique which was signed by 18 different Itsekiri communities’ co- ordinators of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd.
They include: Mr. Ebisan Fenemigho(Coordinator, Ubagboro Cluster), Mr Fidelis Etelori(Coordinator, Opumami & Obodo Cluster), Mr. Richard Arubi(Coordinator, Ugborodo Cluster), Mr Emmanuel Demeyin(Coordinator, Deghele Cluster), Mr Johnson Onire,( Coordinator, Aja-Osolo Cluster), Chief Priest Roland Oti Yomere(Coordinator, Omadino Cluster, among others. According to them, the coordinators strongly condemn the actions of some persons who claim to be leaders of Nigeria Delta fighting against the renewal of the contract to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd.
They said:” We, the Itsekiri Coordinators of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, strongly and unequivocally condemn the actions of certain individuals parading themselves as leaders of the Niger Delta while calling for the revocation of the Tantita pipeline surveillance contract. We make it clear that these agitators do not represent the interests of the people but are driven by selfish motives and personal gain.”
“We strongly condemn any calls for the decentralization or cancellation of the Tantita contract. Such agitations are not only misguided but are deliberate attempts to destabilize the peace currently enjoyed in the Niger Delta region. “It is important to note that many of those behind these calls are individuals previously involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering activities, who have been effectively curtailed by Tantita’s operations. Their intentions are self-serving and aimed at creating loopholes to resume criminal activities”.
According to them, those agitating for the revocation do not have the interest of peace, development, or stability in the Niger Delta, but calculated attempts to create confusion and reintroduce disorder for their own benefit. The coordinators said, they are the legitimate leaders in their respective Itsekiri communities adding that, other coordinators and employees from various ethnic groups that represent their various regions across the Niger Delta. According to them, these individuals lack both the mandate and credibility to speak on behalf of our people.
Their words :“We are stating unequivocally that High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has proven himself to be the most capable and reliable leader for this critical national assignment. Under his leadership, Tantita has continued to deliver exceptional results in safeguarding pipelines, drastically reducing oil theft, and restoring confidence in the oil and gas sector.”
The Itsekiri co-ordinators of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd said, what the agitators are calling for is already embedded within the existing Tantita operational structure as the organization has put in place a comprehensive, inclusive framework where every community and ethnic nationality across the Niger Delta is duly represented.
According to them, Community-based individuals have already been appointed as coordinators and contracts have been awarded to them to oversee operations, ensure effective supervision, and maintain accountability within their respective regions, the action which demonstrates inclusivity, true representation, and grassroots participation which are already fully operational within the Tantita system.
Their words: “As Itsekiris, we are proud to affirm that we are well represented within this structure. We, the coordinators, are duly appointed representatives from various oil-producing and pipeline-hosting communities. Our inclusion reflects fairness, inclusivity, and a recognition of the critical role our communities play in national development.”
” Tantita’s operations have brought significant improvements to security and environmental stability across the Niger Delta waterways. The company has effectively eradicated incidents of kidnapping and unrest in the region’s waters, while also contributing to the revival and promotion of aquatic life through the protection of the ecosystem.”, they added.
According to them, pipeline surveillance contract is not a regional entitlement or “Niger Delta slot,” but a responsibility entrusted by the Federal Government to a competent and capable organization as Tantita has earned this trust through performance, discipline, and results.
They therefore advise those agitating against this contract to channel their energies into more productive ventures as there are numerous legitimate opportunities and contracts available at the federal level for individuals and groups willing to engage lawfully and competitively, rather than attempting to discredit or disrupt a system that is already delivering results.
They however used the medium express their gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the extension of the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita as the decision to do that demonstrates the administration’s commitment to continuity, efficiency, and the protection of the nation’s critical oil and gas infrastructure.
They therefore reaffirmed their unwavering support for Tantita Security Services and its leadership just as they said they remain committed to ensuring the continued protection of Nigeria’s oil and gas assets and sustaining peace, environmental stability, and development in the various communities in particular and the Niger Delta at large.