Itsekiri Leader Urges Youth to Embrace Innovation, Condemns False Narratives Against Tantita Security Services
Warri, Delta State – Mr. Jonathan Duris Orugboh, a prominent leader in Dibi Field, Warri North Local Government Area, has called on Itsekiri youths to cultivate their creative potential and explore opportunities beyond the oil sector. He strongly condemned the dissemination of false information regarding High Chief Government Ekpemupolo’s Tantita Security Services Limited, urging the youth to focus on productive endeavors rather than spreading unfounded accusations. His statement comes in response to social media posts alleging that Itsekiri leaders in Dibi Field, including himself, ignored attacks on Itsekiri riverine communities after allegedly receiving 51 pipeline surveillance slots from High Chief Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.
Orugboh categorically denied any financial ties to Tantita Security Services, stating his business operations are unrelated to the oil industry. He expressed concern that the individuals propagating these false narratives on social media may have vested interests in crude oil theft or pipeline vandalism. He further suggested that their actions could be interpreted as an attempt to obstruct thorough investigations into the pipeline blast and the subsequent prosecution of those responsible for this act of economic sabotage. Orugboh firmly refuted claims that Tantita personnel invaded or looted Itsekiri communities in Dibi Field, labeling such allegations as propaganda. He emphasized the need for Itsekiri youth to look beyond oil dependency and leverage their talents to build sustainable livelihoods, rather than engaging in security matters outside their expertise.
He commended Tantita Security Services Limited for its efforts in combating sea piracy and crude oil theft, in addition to its pipeline surveillance duties contracted by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). He urged the public to recognize the company’s positive contributions to security in the region. Orugboh clarified that the meeting between Tantita officials and Dibi Field leaders, contrary to claims that it took place in Oporaza, was held at a hotel near Warri. He explained that the allocation of surveillance slots to Dibi Field adhered to Tantita’s policy of respecting the Local Content Act in its operations under the NNPCL contract.
This incident underscores the complex dynamics of the oil-rich Niger Delta region, where economic interests often intersect with security concerns and community relations. The call for Itsekiri youths to embrace innovation and seek opportunities beyond oil dependency highlights the need for diversification and sustainable development in a region grappling with the legacy of oil exploration. The accusations against Tantita Security Services and the subsequent denial by a community leader raise questions about the transparency and accountability of security operations in the region.
The controversy also brings to light the role of social media in disseminating information, both accurate and inaccurate, and its potential to influence public perception and fuel tensions. It highlights the importance of verifying information and relying on credible sources, particularly in a region where misinformation can have serious consequences. The allocation of pipeline surveillance slots under the Local Content Act raises questions about the equitable distribution of benefits from oil operations and the involvement of local communities in securing their environment.
Moving forward, it is crucial for stakeholders in the Niger Delta to foster open communication, promote transparency, and engage in constructive dialogue to address the challenges facing the region. Efforts should be made to empower local communities, create alternative economic opportunities, and ensure that security operations are conducted in a manner that respects human rights and promotes peace and stability. It is equally important for the media and the public to exercise caution and verify information before disseminating it, to avoid exacerbating tensions and undermining efforts to build a more secure and prosperous future for the region.