NBA commends Tantita, NNPC in fight against oil theft

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), led by President Afam Osigwe, SAN, has commended Tantita Security Services and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) for their ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and increase oil production in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region.

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During a recent visit to the Niger Delta, Osigwe and members of the NBA’s National Executive Council (NEC) engaged with key stakeholders, including Tantita’s chairman, Government Tompolo, while visiting Gbaramatu Kingdom. This tour aimed to assess firsthand the challenges posed by oil theft and the impact on local communities.

Tompolo reported that his security personnel faced attacks while apprehending oil thieves in the Port Harcourt creeks.

He urged the NBA to support their efforts, emphasizing the economic crisis facing the country. “If we are not careful, we will not have resources to undertake meaningful projects. We need your help in the legal aspect of these arrests,” he said.

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Osigwe praised Tantita for its commitment to protecting oil infrastructure and increasing production from 1.8 million barrels per day to 2 million barrels per day. He called for enhanced collaboration between private security firms and government agencies in the fight against oil theft.

However, Tompolo highlighted ongoing challenges, particularly with the Nigerian Navy, which he claimed has refused to share intelligence or collaborate effectively with Tantita. He expressed concern over threats to his life due to his company’s efforts to eradicate oil theft, stating, “Many key players in the oil industry want me dead for my commitment to this cause.”

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Osigwe acknowledged the importance of addressing oil theft, stating, “If oil production increases, it benefits all of us, enabling the government to meet the needs of the people. We must protect our commonwealth from those who seek to exploit it.”

The NBA’s visit also aimed to understand the hardships faced by oil-producing communities, with Osigwe noting that these areas often bear the brunt of environmental degradation without reaping the economic benefits of oil wealth.

He emphasized the need for infrastructural support from the federal government, echoing the sentiments of the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Oboro-Gbaraun II, who called for the establishment of a Magistrate Court in the region.

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“The government must come closer to us and fulfill its obligations,” the monarch stated. “Gbaramatu stands for peace and will continue to advocate for harmony in the Niger Delta.”

The NBA’s engagement in the Niger Delta underscores the association’s commitment to addressing critical issues related to oil theft, community welfare, and environmental protection in Nigeria.