Surveillance Contract: Host Communities Caution Against Attacks On Tompolo, Tantita

Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas and Pipeline-Impacted States (HOSCON) has cautioned against attacks on the chief executive officer of Tantita Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), over the pipeline surveillance contract.

The group described Tompolo as a worthy leader who deserves commendation for his role in boosting oil production in the Niger Delta.

The national chairman of HOSCON, Prince Dr Mike Emuh, in a statement, insisted that unrestrained accusations or attacks on the Tantita leadership were counterproductive to both the nation and the host communities.

He said, “We consider it a critical concern we should address, taking into cognisance that Tantita, as a security outfit under Tompolo, has been able to foster peace, unity and an enabling environment for improved oil and gas production in the Niger Delta”.

Emuh counselled that instead of the repeated attacks and accusations against Tompolo, the agitators should demand full and accurate implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and its amendments, operationalisation of Section 162 (2) of the 1999 Constitution in favour of host communities and creation of a 13 per cent Derivation Implementation Committee.

He highlighted gaps in the implementation of the PIA but cautioned against undue rivalry and any violent acts.

He asked the agitators to unite with President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda, South-South governors, traditional rulers and host communities to build a united, prosperous and   peaceful nation

He stressed that rather than personal attacks on Tompolo, such agitators should join him and other stakeholders to deliver on direct 13 per cent oil derivation payments to the Host Communities.

He said, “These are critical areas of interest for the greater good of the Niger Delta, which should agitate interest and action rather than the fixation on surveillance contracts”.

He therefore disassociated HOSCON from such attacks and called for restraint and constructive engagement among the agitators.

He reiterated that President Bola Tinubu’s recognition of Tompolo and his leadership efficiency should be commended.

According to him, Tompolo’s campaign in Okporoza, Gbaramotu, Delta State, for the presidency ahead of the 2023 election was significant.

He recalled that the consequential campaign was attended by major Ijaw sons and daughters, including HOSCON bigwigs such as High Chief Wellington Okirika and the National Chairman of HOSCON, Prince Dr Mike Emuh, as well as other traditional rulers and dignitaries.

“We are convinced that the president has implicit confidence in Tompolo on this national assignment, and his continued management of the security architecture on surveillance and security in the Niger Delta has been successful,” Emuh added.