Niger Delta Group Defends Tantita Against Smear Campaigns

The Niger Delta Civil Society Forum (NDCSF) has condemned the smear campaigns against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, which were described as malicious social media attacks orchestrated by oil thieves. Ezekiel Kagbala, the NDCSF coordinator, stated that these attacks aim to discredit Tantita, which has been contracted by the federal government to monitor pipelines.

The forum highlighted that Tantita's efforts have significantly contributed to the fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, leading to an unprecedented reduction in illegal operations. The NDCSF called on President Bola Tinubu to remain steadfast and ignore the "disgruntled elements" behind the smear campaign, emphasizing that such propaganda undermines Nigeria's economic recovery and energy security.

Tantita's operations have reportedly improved the safety of waterways in the Niger Delta, benefiting legitimate fishermen and traders. The forum warned that attempts to weaken Tantita's enforcement could drag Nigeria back into an era of rampant oil theft, which the country cannot afford.