Nigeria Navy Accused of Assisting Oil Thieves, Surveillance Firm Raises Concerns
In a recent development, the Nigeria Navy has been accused once again of engaging in economic sabotage by aiding oil thieves. This accusation has been made by a private surveillance firm called Tantita Security Services Nigeria Ltd, which has been contracted by the Federal Government to protect crude oil pipelines and combat crude oil theft, a menace that has been plaguing Nigeria’s economy.
Tantita, owned by Government Ekpemopolo, a former militant leader from the Niger Delta, has been instrumental in apprehending oil thieves and unveiling their illicit activities, thereby saving the country billions of Naira. However, the firm is now expressing its demoralization due to alleged interference by the Nigeria Navy.
According to a statement issued by Tantita, the Nigeria Navy has been selectively arresting and detaining its operatives who are actively pursuing oil thieves in the high seas. This obstruction has given the thieves an opportunity to escape, leading to increased frustration for Tantita. The firm claims to have concrete evidence that disproves the Navy’s allegations of their involvement in crude oil theft.
The recent incident that sparked this allegation occurred when five Tantita personnel were arrested by the Nigeria Navy in Lagos State. The Navy stated that it was investigating the circumstances surrounding their arrest and the illegal transportation of oil products from Ondo State to Lagos. However, Tantita asserts that it was actually the Navy that engaged in economic sabotage and disrupted their operation.
Tantita provides a detailed account of the incident, explaining that they received credible intelligence regarding a motorized wooden boat involved in illegal loading of crude oil from an offshore oil well jacket. They dispatched teams to intercept the boat and secure evidence. However, the fleeing crew sought refuge at the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base in Ibeju-Lekki, resulting in the arrest of Tantita personnel instead of the criminals.
After reaching out to the Navy to clarify the situation, Tantita was assured that their personnel would be released once the investigation was completed. However, this has not happened, leaving the firm concerned about the continued detention of their dedicated employees.
Neither the Navy nor the Federal Government has responded to these serious allegations, which has raised concerns about accountability and transparency within the Nigeria Navy. The actions and interference allegedly carried out by the Navy not only undermine the efforts to combat crude oil theft but also demoralize and endanger the lives of those striving to protect the nation’s resources.
As this controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Nigerian Navy and the government will address these alarming allegations and provide clarity on the matter.
