The Niger-Delta Environmental Justice Coalition has accused prominent Niger Delta figures, including ex-agitators and an unnamed traditional ruler, of orchestrating media attacks against Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), CEO of Tantita Security Group.

In a statement issued by the coalition’s spokesman, Comrade Abalagha Adawari, the group condemned the alleged smear campaign, describing it as a calculated attempt to undermine Tantita’s efforts to curb oil bunkering in the region.

“These orchestrated character assassinations are not only baseless but also a direct threat to the critical work being done by Tompolo and his team,” Adawari stated.

The coalition didn’t include any evidence to support their claim but suggested that the media attacks were being sponsored by individuals with vested interests in illegal oil activities, frustrated by Tantita’s crackdown on crude oil theft.

“These attacks are designed to dampen Tompolo’s spirit and distract from his essential mission of protecting Nigeria’s oil assets,” Adawari added.

He further highlighted the sacrifices made by Tantita officials, some of whom have lost their lives in the fight against oil theft.

The Niger-Delta Environmental Justice Coalition reaffirmed its unwavering support for Tompolo and Tantita Security Group, praising their role in securing Nigeria’s crude pipelines and ensuring the country meets its OPEC quota.

Additionally, the coalition expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu and his administration for resisting pressure from those allegedly attempting to discredit Tompolo and other defenders of Nigeria’s oil sector.

“The resolve of Tompolo and the Tantita Group remains steadfast. They will stop at nothing to ensure the security of Nigeria’s crude pipelines,” Adawari concluded.

The Guardian reached out to some of those mentioned in the Niger-Delta Environmental Justice Coalition statement, but didn’t get any response as of the time of going to press with this report.