...As President Bola Tinubu Urged To Blacklist Tompolo, Tantita Security Services From Government Contracts, Citing Their Involvement In Banditry And Terrorism Activities Across The Niger Delta Region

Concerns have been raised by various individuals and groups regarding the activities of Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. Critics have questioned whether claims against the company and its leadership differ from the criminal activities associated with banditry and terrorism, citing claims of kidnapping, unlawful detention, killings, and beheadings. 

Additionally, claims have been made that private detention facilities are being operated where individuals are reportedly held for extended periods ranging from weeks and months to several years.

According to these claims, Tantita Security Services has been significantly empowered through pipeline surveillance contracts awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). 

Some observers argue that the Federal Government, through these contracts, has mistakenly strengthened an organization that is now the subject of serious public accusations. Concerns have intensified due to reports from victims, families of missing persons, and members of the public who claim that security agencies have failed to adequately investigate or address the claims.

Among the cases cited is that of Mr. Balamene Karowei, who was abducted from his residence in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on July 11, 2024. His case has been referenced by advocates and concerned stakeholders as an example of the broader claims surrounding enforced disappearances and unlawful detention.

According to eyewitnesses and family members present during the incident, Mr. Karowei was taken from his home by Bodmas Kemepadei, acting in collaboration with certain officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). It has further been alleged that the operation was carried out under the instruction of Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo).

The abduction reportedly occurred in the presence of Mr. Karowei’s relatives and family members. Since that date, his whereabouts are said to remain unknown. Family members reportedly state that no lawful arrest record, court proceeding, detention notice, or official explanation has been provided regarding his disappearance. As a result, concerns have been raised that his case may constitute an enforced disappearance under internationally recognized human rights standards.

Another case frequently cited is that of Mr. Charles Korubo, who was reportedly abducted on November 19, 2024. According to information provided by witnesses and family members, Mr. Korubo was allegedly kidnapped by Jacob Korubo and other armed individuals. It has also been alleged that Joshua Maciver facilitated the operation by providing support to the individuals involved. Witnesses further claim that the operation was carried out under the authority of Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo).

Following Mr. Korubo’s disappearance, reports emerged that he was transported to Oporoza, the hometown of Tompolo in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State. These claims have generated additional public concern regarding the circumstances surrounding his disappearance and detention.

Further claims arose after one of Tompolo’s associates, identified as Ezekiel Daniel, reportedly appeared in a video circulated on Facebook in which he allegedly claimed that Joshua Maciver delivered Charles Korubo into captivity and transported him to Oporoza, where he was subsequently handed over to Tompolo.

Those raising these concerns argue that, if proven, such claims could amount to unlawful detention, torture, criminal conspiracy, and serious violations of both domestic and international human rights obligations. They have therefore called for independent investigations to establish the facts and determine accountability where necessary.

Additionally, the existence of unlawful detention facilities and private prisons reportedly operating within Oporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State. According to these claims, several individuals have allegedly been detained without due judicial process, formal charges, or access to legal representation.

Some of the persons who identify themselves as victims have reportedly initiated legal proceedings against Tompolo and others, alleging that they were held in these facilities for prolonged periods. Reports further claim that detainees were subjected to intimidation, coercion, harsh treatment, and the denial of legal protections guaranteed under Nigerian law, the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, and other international human rights instruments.

Concerns have also been expressed regarding claims of extrajudicial killings in Rivers State and other parts of the Niger Delta. Reports and video materials circulating publicly have allegedly depicted perosns identified as personnel associated with Tantita Security Services engaging in acts of violence, including killings and beheadings. These claims have contributed to growing calls for official scrutiny of the company’s activities.

Further attention has been drawn to a protest letter reportedly signed by Chief Robison Ariyo and other stakeholders, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish a panel of inquiry into the activities of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. According to reports, copies of the petition were also sent to the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and the Governor of Delta State. 

The petition reportedly expressed concerns about alleged human rights violations, unlawful detention, arms accumulation, and other conduct considered inconsistent with the responsibilities of a licensed security contractor. It also raised concerns regarding the alleged proliferation of weapons in coastal communities and claims that missing persons may have been detained in facilities where they were subjected to inhumane conditions and forced labor.

In light of these claims, critics continue to question why agencies such as the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security institutions have not publicly addressed or conclusively investigated the claims. 

They have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish an independent investigative panel to examine the allegations, ensure accountability where wrongdoing is established, provide justice for alleged victims, and blacklist Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Maton Engineering Limited for future government contracts.