Coordinators of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited from Itsekiri communities across the Niger Delta have condemned the calls for the revocation of the company’s pipeline surveillance contract, describing such demands as self-serving and destabilizing.
In a press briefing held on March 31, the coordinators rejected the legitimacy of individuals “parading themselves as leaders of the Niger Delta” while agitating against the contract.
According to the group, such actors neither represent the interests of the people nor possess the mandate to speak on behalf of the region.
Addressing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the coordinators expressed deep appreciation for the Federal Government’s decision to extend the surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services.
They described the move as a demonstration of commitment to efficiency, continuity, and the protection of Nigeria’s critical oil and gas infrastructure.
The group reaffirmed confidence in the leadership of Government Ekpemupolo, who heads Tantita Security Services. The coordinators credited him with delivering measurable improvements in pipeline security, significantly reducing crude oil theft, and restoring confidence in the sector.
Why emphasizing that the company’s operational structure already incorporates inclusivity across the Niger Delta, with coordinators and contractors drawn from various communities and ethnic nationalities, the group noted that this framework ensures grassroots participation, accountability, and effective supervision across pipeline-hosting areas.
Highlighting security gains, the coordinators stated that Tantita’s operations have contributed to a notable decline in incidents of kidnapping and unrest along the region’s waterways.
They also pointed to improvements in environmental stability, including the protection of aquatic ecosystems.
“As Itsekiris, we are proud to affirm that we are well represented within this structure. Their appointments reflect fairness and recognition of their communities’ role in national development,” stated the group.
The coordinators warned that calls for decentralization or cancellation of the contract could undermine the relative peace currently enjoyed in the Niger Delta, alleging that some of those behind the agitation were previously involved in illegal bunkering and pipeline vandalism, and are seeking to exploit any disruption for personal gain.
They further stressed that the pipeline surveillance contract is not a regional entitlement but a responsibility entrusted by the Federal Government to a capable organization based on performance and results.
The group urged critics to pursue legitimate economic opportunities rather than attempting to discredit a system they claim is already delivering tangible benefits.
Present at the briefing were Mr. Ebisan Fenemigho (Ubagboro Cluster), Mr. Fidelis Ete Lori (Opumami & Obodo Cluster), Mr. Richard Arubi (Ugborodo Cluster), Mr. Emmanuel Demeyin (Deghele Cluster), Mr. Johnson Onire (Aja-Osolo Cluster), Chief Priest Roland Oti Yomere (Omadino Cluster), and several others representing clusters and units across Itsekiri communities.
