Warri, Delta State – Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has accused the Nigerian Navy of frustrating efforts to combat crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. The former militant leader turned security consultant claims the Navy is actively aiding oil thieves, jeopardizing Nigeria’s economic recovery.
Speaking at his Oporoza residence during a meeting with the National President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN), Tompolo alleged that Navy operatives are sabotaging private security operations, including those of his Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), which was contracted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Tompolo detailed incidents where Navy personnel allegedly provided protection for vessels transporting stolen crude oil. He accused them of engaging in open confrontations with other security outfits, including Tantita operatives, to secure passage for oil thieves.
“In Port Harcourt, Tantita intercepted a vessel carrying stolen crude oil, only for Navy personnel to escort the vessel and fire on our team alongside civil defense and DSS operatives. Similar incidents have occurred in Delta State and other regions. These actions undermine the war against crude oil theft,” he said.
According to Tompolo, the Navy’s complicity in oil theft extends to offering security cover to criminal networks. He lamented the financial implications of these activities, stating, “The Navy, instead of safeguarding our economic assets, has prioritized personal gain over national duty.”
Tompolo did not spare the legal profession in his criticism, accusing NBA members of defending oil barons and hindering justice. He called on the association to join the fight against oil theft.
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“When we arrest these criminals, lawyers from major cities like Abuja and Lagos deploy legal tactics to secure their release. This practice enables the continued exploitation of our resources,” he added.
Despite the challenges, Tompolo assured stakeholders of his commitment to increasing crude oil production. He celebrated the recent rise to 1.8 million barrels per day (mbpd) and expressed confidence in achieving the 2 mbpd target by December 2023.
In response, NBA President Osigwe commended Tantita’s efforts and pledged the association’s support in addressing crude oil theft. “The impact of oil theft on our national economy and foreign reserves cannot be overstated. We must tackle this menace to ensure sustainable development,” he said.
Osigwe highlighted the detrimental effects of oil exploration on Niger Delta communities. He stressed the need for better infrastructure and equitable resource allocation for oil-bearing communities.
