Tompolo, the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, which has been contracted by the Nigerian government for pipeline protection, accused the military—specifically the Nigerian Navy—of participating in oil theft. He made these allegations on Monday while meeting with the national leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
He claimed that the Navy was not coordinating effectively with other state entities and private security organizations responsible for combating oil theft in the Niger Delta.
Speaking at a biweekly military operations update in Abuja on Thursday, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, dismissed Tompolo’s claims as ‘cheap blackmail’.
The spokesperson for the Defence Headquarters stated, “Regarding inquiries about the Nigerian Navy and Tantita’s CEO, I find it almost amusing. However, what I’d like to emphasize is that we aim for collaboration rather than confrontation.”
“However, this inexpensive coercion must come to an end. Let’s quicken our pace and act in the nation’s best interest, especially now when that revenue is crucial. We will collaborate with our partners.”
Addressing the issue on Thursday, the CSOs, led by RHAN and CAAC, criticized Tompolo’s allegations. They labeled these claims as unsubstantiated, baseless, frivolous, and lacking in merit.
During a press conference in Abuja, the CSOs emphasized that Tompolo does not have the moral right to criticize the Nigerian Navy. They pointed out his past conduct, noting his history as a wanted fugitive and involvement with a militant group responsible for terrorizing and kidnapping oil workers.
Abdullahi Bilal and Olayemi Isaacs, leaders of RHAN and CAAC respectively, spoke to journalists about the accomplishments of the Nigerian Navy under Rear Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla’s leadership as Chief of Naval Staff. They highlighted significant achievements such as dismantling illegal refining sites, apprehending sea pirates, reducing maritime crimes significantly while conducting over 21,630 hours of patrols leading to numerous arrests and seizures.
The CSOs cautioned that baseless accusations might result in chaos and heightened criminal activity, urging the Nigerian Navy to stay focused and unwavering in their efforts against oil theft.
They stated, “We all share the responsibility to combat forces and interests that threaten our collective existence. It’s crucial we eliminate these threats, which is why we are gathered here today.”
In our view, this presents a suitable chance to tackle the situation head-on and raise public awareness about Tompolo’s malicious intentions and his serious allegation. His actions attempt to undermine the Nigerian Navy and lower the morale of their courageous personnel on duty.
We must also caution against the potential chaos, destruction, and rise in criminal activities if such misinformation and mischief persist without being addressed. Our concern is for the national interest.
We believe that removing this veil of secrecy and deception will propel the nation forward, inspire the Armed Forces, and motivate security personnel across the country in their efforts to protect us.
We urge all advocates of peace and partners with God to join us in condemning this deliberate attack on individuals who have risked their lives for our tranquility.
