Ex-IYC President Eradiri Urges Tinubu to Ignore Calls for Cancellation of Tompolo's Pipeline Surveillance Contract

 

Former President of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Udengs Eradiri, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to disregard growing demands for the termination of the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, owned by former Niger Delta militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.

In a statement, Eradiri described the calls for cancellation as orchestrated by "enemies of Nigeria" and "conflict merchants" motivated by jealousy, hatred toward Tompolo, and a desire to destabilize the oil sector. He emphasized that Tantita's operations have significantly contributed to stabilizing crude oil production, reducing vandalism, and curbing illegal bunkering in the Niger Delta region.

Eradiri argued that the contract has been a key factor in boosting national revenue and security in the creeks, where oil theft had previously caused massive economic losses. He warned that revoking the agreement could create an intelligence vacuum, embolden criminal syndicates, and reverse recent gains in oil output and stability.

The appeal comes amid heightened controversy surrounding the multibillion-naira (reportedly around $144 million) contract. In recent days, groups such as the Niger Delta Centre for Justice and Accountability (NDCJA) have petitioned President Tinubu, demanding the immediate termination of the deal with Tantita. They cited concerns over transparency, accountability, national security risks, and the concentration of surveillance powers in private hands linked to former militants. The NDCJA called for a shift to a decentralized, institutionally overseen surveillance regime.

Other voices, including some Niger Delta stakeholders and activists, have echoed similar demands for review or cancellation, while supporters—including APC chieftains like Blessing Agbomhere—have cautioned that abrupt termination could trigger renewed oil theft, revenue shortfalls, and instability in the oil-producing region.

Eradiri's position aligns with those defending the contract's effectiveness, asserting that opposition stems from political motives or interests threatened by intensified anti-theft efforts under Tantita. He urged President Tinubu to prioritize national interest by sustaining the arrangement that has helped restore peace and productivity in the Niger Delta.

As debates intensify, the Federal Government is reportedly reviewing aspects of pipeline surveillance contracts amid broader economic and security considerations. No official decision on renewal, termination, or modification has been announced.

The development underscores ongoing tensions in the management of Nigeria's critical oil infrastructure, balancing local empowerment, security efficacy, and calls for greater institutional oversight.