Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has condemned the recent killing of personnel from Tantita Security Services Ltd, a private security firm tasked with protecting Nigeria’s vital oil pipelines in the Niger Delta.
According to The Guardian, while reacting to the tragic development on Monday in Abuja, Adeyanju described the attacks as a direct threat to the nation’s oil sector and economy, emphasising the urgent need for security agencies to act decisively against both the perpetrators and their sponsors.
“By dismantling the networks that support these criminals, we can ensure a safer environment for Tantita personnel to operate and, in turn, enhance Nigeria’s oil production capacity,” Adeyanju stated. “This will not only provide significant economic benefits but also enable us to meet our OPEC quota, which is vital for our national interests.”
The lawyer lauded Tantita Security Services Ltd for its crucial role in combating oil theft since securing its surveillance contract. He noted that the company’s efforts have led to multiple arrests and a significant reduction in illicit activities affecting Nigeria’s oil sector.
“Thanks to their dedication and expertise, our oil output has improved remarkably, reaching approximately 1.3 million barrels per day. This achievement is a direct result of the sacrifices made by Tantita personnel, who risk their lives daily to defend our nation’s oil pipelines,” he said.
Adeyanju further highlighted Tantita’s deep-rooted knowledge of the Niger Delta terrain as a key advantage in the fight against oil smuggling and bunkering. He urged security agencies to recognize and support the company’s work in protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas assets.
“The engagement of Tantita Security Services Ltd is critical in combating the scourge of oil smuggling and bunkering. As a local company, they possess intimate knowledge of the terrain in the Niger Delta and are acutely aware of the hiding places and tactics employed by these criminals,” he explained.
Commending Tantita for its resilience in the face of growing threats, Adeyanju praised the security firm’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s energy resources.
“I commend Tantita Security Services Ltd for their commitment and resilience in the face of unprovoked attacks against their personnel. Their courage and determination in the fight against oil theft are commendable, and I urge them to continue to protect our oil and gas assets from these criminals,” he added.
