Tantita Security: Akiefa Condemns ‘Betrayal Silence’, Rallies Niger Delta for Massive Solidarity with Tompolo
By Ezekiel Kagbala
A prominent Ijaw youth leader, Comrade (Chief) Frank Akiefa, has strongly condemned what he described as a “betrayal of silence” by beneficiaries of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), calling for widespread solidarity with the company and its founder, High Chief Government Ekpemukpolo, popularly known as Tompolo.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Monday in Warri, Akiefa expressed deep concern that thousands of individuals and stakeholders who have directly and indirectly benefited from Tantita’s operations have failed to speak out at a time when the firm is facing mounting criticism and calls for the review or division of its pipeline surveillance contract.
“Where are the generals? Where are the executives? Where are the community leaders? Where are the thousands on Tantita’s payroll?” Akiefa queried. “Where are those receiving regular credit alerts from the company? Silence at a time like this is unacceptable.”
Akiefa linked his remarks to growing agitation by certain interest groups seeking a split or review of the surveillance contract awarded to Tantita, describing such calls as being driven by jealousy, political manoeuvring, and vested interests determined to undermine the company’s success.
According to him, some critics are individuals who previously benefited from crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, now disguising their motives under the pretext of advocating accountability. He warned that narratives such as “guard your pipeline, I guard mine” are divisive and threaten the stability achieved in the region.
Akiefa, a chief of Ogbolubiri-Mein Kingdom, maintained that Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has played a transformative role in the Niger Delta, not only in curbing oil theft but also in generating millions of direct and indirect employment opportunities for youths and community stakeholders.
He highlighted the company’s contributions to human capital development, including vocational training, skills acquisition programmes, educational support initiatives, and the construction of infrastructure such as computer-based testing centres and classrooms in rural and riverine communities.
“These interventions have expanded economic opportunities, reduced poverty, and restored hope to many communities. It is therefore disturbing that the majority of beneficiaries remain silent while the company is under attack,” he said.
Akiefa acknowledged that some traditional rulers and community leaders have openly declared their support for Tantita, but insisted that more voices must rise in defence of what he described as a proven and effective model for pipeline security and community empowerment.
He further stressed that the surveillance contract should be sustained, noting that it has significantly contributed to increased oil production and improved security across critical oil assets, despite concerns from some quarters regarding the distribution of benefits.
“Your silence is dangerous. Silence in the face of orchestrated attacks and senseless betrayal amounts to ingratitude. Speak up now. Stand in solidarity with Tantita,” Akiefa urged.
He also called for unity within the Ijaw nation, warning against attempts by selfish interests to sow division or exploit internal differences for personal gain.
“The Ijaw people must remain united and vigilant. We must not allow greed and manipulation to destroy the progress we have collectively achieved,” he added.
Akiefa’s remarks come amid ongoing debates over the future of pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta, with stakeholders sharply divided between calls for restructuring and maintaining the current framework anchored by Tantita Security.
