GOVERNMENT Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, has stated that powerful figures involved in oil theft in Nigeria are currently upset with him for exposing their illicit activities.
He made these allegations during a visit from members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in his hometown of Oporoza, the headquarters of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, where he also expressed concerns about ongoing threats to his life.
Tompolo reported that just a few days ago, naval personnel attacked operatives from Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a private firm contracted by the federal government to safeguard oil and gas infrastructure in parts of the Niger Delta. This incident occurred while they were attempting to arrest suspected oil thieves in the Port Harcourt creeks.
During the NBA’s national executive visit, led by President Afam Osigwe (SAN), Tompolo emphasized the need for collaboration between the navy and other security agencies.
He stated, “In carrying out this work, we have upset many influential people in Lagos and Abuja. Following my court cases, I can’t travel freely due to threats from key figures involved in this battle. If I want to go to Abuja to meet you, I must take security with me. Even with a few security personnel, they are not pleased with me and are now collaborating with those involved in oil theft.”
He noted that Tantita Security often faces confrontations with the navy, despite everyone knowing the respective roles of the Nigerian Navy and Tantita.
“If we manage to arrest anyone, we’ll need a lawyer from Abuja, Lagos, or Ibadan to handle the case properly,” he added.
Tompolo expressed concern that efforts to combat crude oil theft are being undermined in certain areas. He recounted a recent incident where Tantita intercepted a vessel in Port Harcourt, during which the navy fired at their personnel, alongside police and other security agencies.
He urged the NBA to take an active role in addressing the current situation, warning that unless action is taken, the country may face severe financial difficulties.
“We all know Nigeria is struggling; a bag of rice costs over N100,000. We’ll do our part locally, but you (NBA) hold significant influence. If we make arrests, lawyers will be there on both sides.”
In response, NBA President Afam Osigwe affirmed the association’s commitment to tackling oil theft in Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of lawyers actively participating in prosecuting those responsible for crude oil theft to ensure justice is served.
Osigwe, along with the NBA National Executive Council members, praised Tantita Security Services for their surveillance efforts, which have led to an increase in oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.
He stated, “If oil production continues to rise, it will benefit everyone, allowing the government to better meet the needs of the people. The fight against oil theft is more crucial now than ever, especially as Nigeria borrows heavily to fund its budget.”
Addressing the ongoing borrowing by the federal government, Osigwe stressed that “if the leaks in oil production are effectively sealed, it will significantly enhance the country’s revenue.”
The NBA team also expressed concern about the negative impact of oil exploration activities in the Niger Delta, which has led to environmental pollution and degradation in many host communities.
Osigwe remarked, “We resolved to conduct an on-the-ground assessment of the oil-bearing communities to understand the hardships they face. The NBA is committed to addressing issues of oil theft and the environmental consequences of oil exploration on these communities. Ironically, the communities that bear the brunt of the nation’s oil wealth do not enjoy its benefits, unlike many cities across the country.”