Dare Babalola
The Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas and Pipeline Impacted States (HOSCON) has called on aggrieved groups to desist from attacking the Chief Executive Officer of Tantita Security Services, Government Ekpemupolo, over controversies surrounding pipeline surveillance contracts.
In a statement issued by the National Chairman of HOSCON, Mike Emuh, he described the criticisms and accusations against Tantita’s leadership as counterproductive, noting that the company had played a significant role in improving security and boosting oil production in the Niger Delta.
Emuh said, “We consider it a critical concern that must be addressed, taking into cognisance that Tantita, as a security outfit under Tompolo, has been able to foster peace, unity and an enabling environment for improved oil and gas production in the Niger Delta.”
He stressed that unrestrained attacks on Tompolo were misplaced and urged stakeholders to adopt a more constructive approach, adding that HOSCON dissociates itself from such criticisms.
The HOSCON chairman further argued that President Bola Tinubu’s decision to entrust Tompolo with pipeline surveillance responsibilities was not arbitrary but rooted in his leadership track record and longstanding involvement in the region.
According to him, Tompolo’s support for Tinubu during the 2023 presidential campaign, particularly a major rally held in Okporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, reflected his influence and commitment to national development.
“We are convinced that the president has implicit confidence in Tompolo on this national assignment, and his continued management of the security architecture for surveillance in the Niger Delta has been successful,” Emuh added.
While acknowledging existing gaps in the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), Emuh urged agitators to redirect their focus towards more pressing issues affecting host communities. These, he said, include the proper implementation of the 13 per cent oil derivation fund, full enforcement of the PIA, and the operationalisation of relevant constitutional provisions in favour of oil-producing communities.
He also called for the establishment of a 13 per cent Derivation Implementation Committee, noting that such measures would better serve the long-term interests of the Niger Delta.
Emuh cautioned against rivalry and any form of violence, urging stakeholders—including South-South governors, traditional rulers, and host communities—to align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda in promoting peace and sustainable development in the region.
