Nigerian Navy Accused of Sabotaging Federal Efforts to Combat Oil Theft
OPOROZA/Nigeria: The Nigerian Navy has come under fire for allegedly undermining federal initiatives aimed at curbing crude oil theft, a critical issue threatening the nation’s economy.
Speaking at Oporoza, the administrative seat of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, accused certain elements within the Navy of obstructing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to boost crude oil production.
Tompolo, the Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), revealed that tensions between Tantita operatives and the Navy have hampered efforts to protect Nigeria’s vital oil pipelines. He cited a recent incident in which naval personnel allegedly attacked Tantita operatives while they were apprehending suspected oil thieves in the Port Harcourt creeks, despite being accompanied by the Police, Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
“While we are working tirelessly to combat crude oil theft and increase production to 1.8 million barrels per day (mbpd), there are confrontations from the Navy. Just a few days ago, our operatives intercepted a vessel, but the Navy opened fire on us. This is despite our efforts being in line with the law and supported by other security agencies,” Tompolo said.
He lamented that Tantita’s operations often provoke legal and physical resistance, noting, “When arrests are made, lawyers from Abuja, Lagos, or Ibadan are swiftly engaged to defend the suspects. We have stepped on many toes, but our mission is critical to the survival of this country. If we are not careful, Nigeria may lose the resources needed to sustain itself.”
Tompolo appealed to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), whose National Executive Council (NEC) visited him, to strengthen legal efforts against oil thieves. He also highlighted the economic strain on citizens, referencing the skyrocketing price of a bag of rice at over ₦100,000.
In response, NBA President Mazi Afam Josiah Osigwe (SAN) praised Tantita Security Services for its crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s oil infrastructure. “This visit has provided us with firsthand knowledge of the challenges here and the impact of Tantita’s work in protecting our national economy,” Osigwe remarked.
He pledged that the NBA would intensify its advocacy against oil theft, underscoring its detrimental impact on Nigeria’s foreign reserves and the government’s ability to deliver on democratic promises. “With production now exceeding 1.8 mbpd for the first time in years and hopes of reaching 2 mbpd by December, we see a path to reducing borrowing and improving infrastructure,” Osigwe said.
Earlier, the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, HRM Oboro-Gbaraun II Aketekpe, lauded recent progress in oil production, attributing the peace in his domain to the efforts of the kingdom’s elites. “We stand for peace and have always extended hands of fellowship. However, the government’s presence is minimal. We call for infrastructural development in our region, given that we produce the oil that feeds the nation’s coffers,” the revered monarch stated during a courtesy call by the NBA NEC.
The visit and revelations underscore the complex dynamics surrounding crude oil theft in Nigeria, highlighting the need for unity among security agencies and the government to protect the nation’s critical resources.
