WARRI – The Itsekiri coordinators of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited have thrown their full weight behind the federal government’s pipeline surveillance contract, describing those calling for its revocation as “selfish agitators” intent on returning the Niger Delta to an era of lawlessness.
In a powerful communique addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 31, 2026, eighteen cluster coordinators representing various oil-producing and pipeline-hosting communities warned that any attempt to decentralize or cancel the contract would jeopardize the fragile peace in the region.
The coordinators—representing key areas such as Ugborodo, Omadino, and Koko—unequivocally dismissed the credibility of groups parading themselves as regional leaders. They alleged that the sudden surge in protests against Tantita is being fueled by individuals whose illegal interests have been hit hard by the security firm’s success.
“These individuals lack both the mandate and credibility to speak on behalf of our people,” the statement read. “Many of those behind these calls are individuals previously involved in pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering who have been effectively curtailed by Tantita’s operations.” The leaders asserted that the agitators are not seeking “equity,” but rather the creation of loopholes to resume criminal activities.
The statement expressed deep appreciation to the President for extending the contract, affirming that High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) has proven to be the most capable leader for the assignment. The coordinators highlighted a “triple-threat” of successes achieved under the current Tantita structure, including the total eradication of kidnapping and piracy incidents along the Niger Delta waterways, the protection of the ecosystem leading to the revival of aquatic life, and a drastic reduction in oil theft that has significantly boosted national production and investor confidence.
Addressing the demand for “decentralization,” the Itsekiri leaders clarified that the current operational framework is already grassroots-driven. They noted that the system is built on an inclusive model where every ethnic nationality is represented by their own community-based contractors and supervisors. “As Itsekiris, we are proud to affirm that we are well represented within this structure,” the statement noted, pointing to their roles as appointed representatives from oil-producing clusters.
The coordinators concluded by reminding the public and the Federal Government that the surveillance contract is a merit-based responsibility rather than a “regional entitlement.” They urged those seeking federal opportunities to engage through legitimate, competitive channels rather than attempting to sabotage a system that is already delivering results for Nigeria.
Prominent Signatories Among the 18 Coordinators:
Mr. Ebisan Fenemigho (Ubagboro Cluster)
Mr. Richard Arubi (Ugborodo Cluster)
Chief Priest Roland Oti Yomere (Omadino Cluster)
Mr. Austin Tete (Egbokodo Cluster)
Mr. Bernard Omaghomi (Kolokolo Cluster)
Mr. Friday Asamah (Koko Cluster)
Mr. Samuel Uwatse (Ugbodede Cluster)
