By OZORO, DELTA STATE – A coalition of professionals under the banner of Isoko Patriots has called on the Federal Government to establish special courts dedicated to prosecuting oil thieves and their sponsors, warning that recent agitations against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) are veiled attempts to revive oil theft operations in the Niger Delta.
Chief Idonis Uwubare, President-General of Irri Kingdom addressing journalists at the event
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday in Ozoro, Delta State, attended by numerous Tantita operatives of Isoko origin, the Patriots accused unnamed ethnic agitators of fronting for criminal cartels desperate to dismantle the gains made in the fight against oil theft.
“We are compelled to draw public and security attention to a carefully orchestrated campaign allegedly bankrolled by oil theft syndicates operating across Isoko and neighbouring communities,” the group declared. “These protests are nothing more than a desperate pushback by elements whose illicit business has been disrupted.”
In partnership with Presidents-General of oil-producing Isoko communities, the Patriots stated that the attacks on TSSNL are being disguised as ethnic grievances, yet reek of economic sabotage.
Scores of Isoko youths in the payroll of TSSNL
They noted that past pipeline surveillance contracts awarded to non-indigenous firms such as Eraskorp Nigeria Limited and Ocean Marine Solutions were never met with ethnic opposition, even during periods when Nigeria’s crude output fell to as low as 700,000 barrels per day due to rampant theft.
“Where were these voices when non-Deltan companies were running surveillance contracts while the nation bled economically?” the group queried.
The Patriots lauded Tantita Security Services as a legitimate and effective intervention in tackling crude oil theft, operating in line with provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act. They emphasised the company’s contribution to local employment, peacebuilding, and community development in the Isoko area.
“Tantita is one of the largest private employers in Isoko land today,” the statement read. “Through its operations in OML 26 and OML 60, it has subcontracted to Isoko-owned firms, clearly demonstrating its commitment to local content.”
Describing calls to split or revoke Tantita’s contract as misleading and unfounded, the Patriots alleged that many of those behind such demands are non-residents of Isoko and are disconnected from the reality on ground.
Scores of Isoko youths in the payroll of TSSNL at the gathering
“Their so-called advocacy is merely a cover for corruption attempting to claw its way back,” they said. “These distractions must not be entertained.”
They urged the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to ignore such agitations and instead intensify support for Tantita’s operations.
“We call on security agencies to direct their intelligence toward unmasking the real forces behind this smear campaign and ensure they are brought to justice,” the statement added.
The Patriots concluded with a strong appeal for the Federal Government to extend Tantita’s operational coverage and renew its contract to secure continued economic stability.
“A winning team deserves applause, not replacement,” they stressed.
Also speaking, Mr Ovie Umuakpo, Coordinator of Tantita operations in Isoko land, disclosed that over 1,000 Isoko youths are currently employed by the firm — a significant factor in curbing restiveness and criminality in the region.
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The event ended with a unanimous vote of confidence in Tantita Security Services, with stakeholders reaffirming their support and calling for further empowerment of the firm in the national interest.
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