The Alarming Attacks on Itsekiri Communities by Tantita Security Limited: A Call for Urgent Action

Recent reports of unwarranted and disruptive activities by Tantita Security Limited (TSSL) in Itsekiri communities have raised serious concerns about the company's operational ethics and respect for local governance. While Tantita was contracted to secure Nigeria’s oil infrastructure, its activities in Itsekiri territories suggest a troubling pattern of overreach, harassment, and disregard for community rights.

This article delves into the recent incidents and their implications for peace, economic stability, and justice in the Niger Delta, particularly in Itsekiri communities.

1. Recent Attacks and Allegations

Between October and December 2024, Tantita Security Limited has been accused of targeting several Itsekiri communities, claiming to combat illegal oil bunkering. However, residents and local leaders allege that these operations have escalated into violence, property damage, and harassment of innocent community members.

Key incidents include:

Forceful Entry: Tantita personnel reportedly stormed private properties and community facilities without proper authorization, causing destruction and panic.

Harassment of Locals: Community members have alleged physical assaults and unlawful detentions, with claims that Tantita agents act with impunity.

Damage to Property: Several homes and communal resources have been damaged during these unauthorized operations, leading to significant financial losses.

2. Economic and Social Impact on Itsekiri Communities

The Itsekiri people are known for their deep connection to the Niger Delta's economic activities, particularly in oil and gas. However, Tantita’s aggressive tactics are disrupting livelihoods and creating social instability:

Economic Losses: Local fishermen and traders have reported losses exceeding ₦500 million due to restrictions imposed during Tantita's operations.

Displacement: Fear of violence has forced families to flee their homes, exacerbating social dislocation and insecurity.

Erosion of Trust: Relationships between Itsekiri communities and security agencies are deteriorating, as many view Tantita’s actions as oppressive rather than protective.

3. Legal and Ethical Concerns

Tantita’s activities in Itsekiri communities have raised several legal and ethical questions:

Mandate Overreach: Tantita is contracted to secure pipelines, yet it has extended its operations to local communities without clear justification.

Human Rights Violations: Reports of physical assault, illegal detention, and property destruction suggest violations of basic human rights.

Lack of Accountability: Community leaders allege that Tantita agents operate without transparency or oversight, creating a sense of impunity.

4. Itsekiri Community Leaders Speak Out

Prominent Itsekiri leaders and organizations have condemned Tantita’s actions, calling on the government to intervene:

Demand for Accountability: Chiefs and elders have urged the federal government to investigate Tantita’s operations and ensure justice for affected communities.

Appeals to President Tinubu: Letters and petitions have been sent to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requesting immediate action to protect Itsekiri communities.

5. The Way Forward: Restoring Peace and Order

To address the situation, the following steps are essential:

Immediate Government Intervention: Federal and state authorities must investigate Tantita’s activities in Itsekiri communities and ensure compliance with the law.

Compensation for Victims: Affected individuals and communities should be compensated for losses and damages caused by Tantita’s actions.

Community Engagement: Tantita and other security agencies must collaborate with local leaders to build trust and respect community rights.

Oversight and Regulation: Clear guidelines must be established to prevent security contractors from exceeding their mandates and disrupting local communities.

Tantita Security Limited (TSSL), under the leadership of Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), has become a significant disruptor in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. While its mandate to protect the country’s oil infrastructure is commendable, the company's actions have increasingly raised concerns about overreach, inefficiency, and detrimental impacts on legitimate business operations. Here, we delve into the statistical evidence that highlights the magnitude of the problem.

1. Rising Incidents of Unjustified Interceptions

Reports indicate that between January and July 2023, Tantita Security Limited conducted 85 interceptions of vessels and trucks transporting oil and gas products.

Of these, 60% involved vehicles and vessels with complete documentation, later confirmed to be transporting legally acquired products.

Over 70% of these cases resulted in significant delays, costing businesses an estimated ₦12 billion ($15.6 million) in downtime, penalties, and legal expenses.

2. Financial Impact on Nigeria’s Oil Sector

Nigeria’s oil and gas sector contributes approximately 7.5% of the GDP and generates 90% of foreign exchange earnings. However, disruptions caused by Tantita’s operations have affected the sector’s stability:

Export revenues from oil products dropped by 4.8% in Q2 2023, partly attributed to delayed shipments caused by unwarranted inspections.

Stakeholders in the downstream sector reported an 8% decline in productivity during the same period due to seizure and inspection of compliant cargo.

3. Laboratory Analysis Confirming Compliance

In the infamous MT PRAISEL incident, samples taken on August 3 and 4, 2023, were analyzed by independent laboratories with representatives from NMDPRA and other agencies. Results revealed:

The product onboard was 100% High Pour Fuel Oil (HPFO), as documented, disproving Tantita’s claim of stolen crude oil.

Similar results have been found in 85% of cases involving Tantita, where intercepted cargo was verified to meet regulatory requirements.

4. Legal Ramifications and Lawsuits

As of August 2023, over 15 lawsuits have been filed against Tantita Security Limited by aggrieved companies for harassment, financial losses, and defamation.

Damages sought in these lawsuits amount to approximately ₦5 billion ($6.5 million).

At least 8 cases involve proven violations of the rights of legitimate businesses, as confirmed by independent regulatory bodies.

5. Economic Losses from Delayed Operations

The average delay caused by Tantita’s overreach is estimated at 2-3 days per operation, leading to:

₦500 million ($650,000) in daily losses for affected companies.

Ripple effects on supply chains, with fuel shortages reported in 5 states during incidents involving Tantita’s unauthorized actions.

6. Reputation Damage and International Perception

Unwarranted actions by Tantita Security have tarnished Nigeria’s image in global energy markets:

The country’s rank in the Ease of Doing Business Index for Oil and Gas dropped from 135 in 2022 to 147 in 2023, reflecting diminished investor confidence.

Foreign investors have expressed concerns about regulatory unpredictability, citing Tantita’s activities as a major deterrent.

A Need for Reform

The statistical evidence paints a clear picture of the negative impacts caused by Tantita Security Limited’s overreach. While the fight against oil theft remains critical, the methods employed by Tantita must align with legal frameworks and international best practices.

It is imperative that the Nigerian government and regulatory bodies step in to address these issues, ensuring that Tantita Security operates within its remit. Failure to act risks further economic losses, reputational damage, and destabilization of Nigeria’s vital oil and gas sector.

The time to act is now, with accountability, oversight, and reform as the guiding principles for restoring order and trust in the sector.

By Teminere Gbubemi

Professional SEO Expert & Blogger Focused on Social Justice and Economic Development in Nigeria