WARRI: Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has accused influential figures behind oil theft in Nigeria of targeting him for exposing their illegal activities. During a visit by members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to his hometown in Oporoza, Gbaramatu Kingdom, Tompolo voiced concerns over threats to his life and the difficulties he faces in his fight against oil theft.
According to Tompolo, recent confrontations between operatives of the Tantita security services limited. and naval personnel have raised alarms. Tantita, a private firm hired by the federal government to safeguard oil infrastructure in the Niger Delta, was reportedly attacked while trying to arrest suspected oil thieves near Port Harcourt Creeks.
In his address to the NBA team, led by president Afam Osigwe (SAN), Tompolo stressed the need for better cooperation between the Nigerian Navy and other security outfits to effectively tackle oil theft. He also highlighted the personal risks involved in his efforts, revealing that he must travel with security even when moving within the country due to threats from powerful figures involved in the illegal oil trade.
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Afam Osigwe, President of the NBA, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to combating oil theft in Nigeria. He emphasized the critical role lawyers play in ensuring that those responsible for stealing Nigeria’s oil are prosecuted and brought to justice. The NBA praised Tantita Security Services for their role in increasing oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day, which is vital for boosting the country’s economy.
Osigwe stressed that addressing oil theft is more urgent than ever, given Nigeria’s growing national debt and the economic challenges the country faces. He highlighted that blocking the leaks in oil production would significantly improve the nation’s revenue and reduce the need for borrowing.
The NBA also expressed concern about the severe environmental impact of oil exploration in the Niger Delta. Osigwe noted that many oil-bearing communities suffer from pollution and environmental degradation, despite being the source of the nation’s oil wealth. He affirmed the NBA’s commitment to assessing the situation on the ground and advocating for the rights of these communities.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with the economic consequences of oil theft and environmental damage, the NBA stands firm in its resolve to support measures that will protect the nation’s resources, hold perpetrators accountable, and improve the living conditions of oil-producing communities.
