Just in: Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa reject calls to terminate Tantita contract, cite gains in oil security

Urhobo, Isoko, Ndokwa Pipeline communities' stakeholders in Delta State have Monday condemned calls for the termination of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited’s pipeline surveillance contract, describing them as self-serving and sponsored by interests linked to oil theft.

In a statement signed by Chief Odaloma Otuya and Chief Adonis, Chief Jeke Cyril, Chief Gabriel Edeme among others President Generals/stakeholders of the communities said agitations to end the contract were a “calculated attempt by criminal oil-bunkering syndicates and their collaborators” to reverse progress in safeguarding national oil and gas infrastructure.

“These agitations are not only misleading but seek to undermine the unprecedented economic gains from improved oil revenues,” the stakeholders said.

The group argued that no previous contractor, from Eraskorp to Ocean Marine Services, had protected Delta State’s oil assets as effectively and inclusively as Tantita. Since the firm’s engagement, it noted, pipeline security has improved, crude oil theft has declined, and stability has increased in oil-producing communities.

Citing recent NNPCL data, the Forum stated that oil production has risen to about 1.84 million barrels per day, with significant growth in earnings largely attributed to enhanced surveillance and security in which Tantita played a major role.

Beyond security, the stakeholders highlighted Tantita’s community engagement, reporting that over 10,000 Delta youths are directly engaged by the company and its subcontractors in pipeline protection. This, they said, ensures compliance with the Petroleum Industry Act and keeps asset protection in the hands of indigenes.

The Forum warned that terminating the contract “at this critical stage would only embolden pipeline vandals and criminal syndicates who previously thrived under weak surveillance systems.”

It urged the Federal Government and relevant authorities to focus on measurable results and resist “sponsored campaigns” aimed at derailing recorded gains. 

“Protection of national assets should never be subjected to political manipulation, sectional sentiments, or the interests of individuals who benefit from economic sabotage,” the statement read.

The group called for sustained surveillance strategies and continued support for legitimate efforts to protect Nigeria’s oil and gas assets.