By Enitan Abel Johngold Orheruata, mnipr
Coordinators of Itsekiri extraction under Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited have thrown their weight behind the company’s pipeline surveillance contract, condemning renewed calls by some Niger Delta agitators for its revocation.
Addressing a press briefing on March 31, 2026, the coordinators described those behind the agitation as self-serving individuals who neither represent the people nor the collective interest of the region.
In a statement addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the group said the calls for cancellation of the contract were aimed at creating confusion and destabilising the relative peace currently enjoyed in the Niger Delta.
“We 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,” the coordinators declared.
They insisted that such persons lack the mandate and credibility to speak for the people, stressing that duly appointed coordinators across communities remain the legitimate representatives within the operational structure of Tantita.
The coordinators expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for extending the surveillance contract, describing the decision as a demonstration of commitment to protecting Nigeria’s critical oil and gas infrastructure.
They also passed a strong vote of confidence in Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, whom they described as a capable and dependable leader.
According to them, Tantita under his leadership has recorded measurable success in curbing oil theft, securing pipelines and restoring investor confidence in the oil and gas sector.
Responding to criticisms about marginalisation, the coordinators maintained that the company’s operational model is already inclusive, with representation across all ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta.
They noted that community-based coordinators and contractors have been duly engaged to oversee operations within their localities, ensuring grassroots participation, accountability and effective supervision.
“What these agitators are calling for is already embedded in Tantita’s structure,” the statement noted, adding that every oil-producing and pipeline-hosting community is adequately represented.
Highlighting achievements, the coordinators said Tantita’s operations have significantly improved security along Niger Delta waterways, claiming a drastic reduction in pipeline vandalism, kidnapping and related criminal activities.
They further stated that the company’s activities have contributed to environmental stability, including the gradual restoration of aquatic life through the protection of the ecosystem.
In a sharp rebuttal, the coordinators alleged that many of those calling for the contract’s cancellation are individuals previously linked to pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering.
They warned that such agitations are deliberate attempts to create loopholes for the resumption of criminal activities in the region.
“Such calls are not only misguided but are calculated efforts to undermine the peace and progress achieved so far,” they said.
The group emphasised that the pipeline surveillance contract is not a regional entitlement but a responsibility awarded based on competence and performance.
They urged critics to pursue legitimate opportunities rather than attempt to discredit a system they said is already delivering results.
The coordinators, drawn from various Itsekiri communities and clusters, reaffirmed their unwavering support for Tantita and its leadership, pledging continued commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s oil assets.
They maintained that sustaining the current framework remains critical to preserving peace, boosting economic stability and advancing development in the Niger Delta.
Observers say the development underscores ongoing tensions around oil pipeline surveillance in the region, even as stakeholders continue to debate the best model for sustaining security and inclusivity in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta.