Calls for presidential probe intensify as petitioners accuse pipeline surveillance contractor of unlawful detention, violence, and weapons proliferation; firm yet to respond to latest claims

Concerns have continued to grow over allegations surrounding Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, amid claims involving unlawful detention, violence, and arms proliferation in parts of the Niger Delta region.

Various individuals and groups have raised accusations questioning the conduct of the private security firm, which currently holds pipeline surveillance contracts awarded by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Critics argue that the federal government’s engagement with the company has significantly expanded its influence, while also raising concerns over alleged abuses linked to its operations.

According to the claims, Tantita Security Services and individuals associated with its operations have been accused of involvement in serious criminal activities, including kidnapping, unlawful detention, killings, and alleged extrajudicial actions. Some reports further allege the existence of private detention facilities where individuals are reportedly held for extended periods without formal charges or access to legal representation.

These allegations have not been independently verified, and the parties involved have not issued a comprehensive public response to the latest claims at the time of filing this report.

Alleged Cases of Abduction and Disappearance

Among the cases frequently cited by concerned stakeholders is that of Mr. Balamene Karowei, who was allegedly abducted from his residence in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, on July 11, 2024. According to claims made by family members and advocates, he was taken during an operation allegedly involving certain individuals and officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), with assertions that the incident occurred under instructions linked to Tompolo.

Since the reported incident, his whereabouts remain unknown, according to his family, who say no official arrest record, court order, or detention notice has been provided.

Another case involves Mr. Charles Korubo, who was reportedly abducted on November 19, 2024. Witness accounts and family claims allege that he was taken by armed individuals, with suggestions that he was later moved to Oporoza in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Delta State. Further claims circulating on social media allege internal involvement by associates linked to Tantita Security Services, though these assertions remain unverified.

Claims of Private Detention Facilities

Additional allegations have pointed to the existence of unauthorized detention facilities in Oporoza, where individuals are reportedly held without due process. Some claimants allege prolonged detention, intimidation, and denial of legal rights guaranteed under Nigerian law and international human rights standards, including the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

Legal action is reportedly being considered or has already been initiated by some individuals who claim they were detained under such circumstances.

Reports of Violence and Weapons Proliferation

Separate concerns have also been raised regarding alleged incidents of violence in parts of Rivers State and other Niger Delta communities. Some reports circulating online include videos purportedly showing individuals linked to security operations engaging in violent acts, including killings and beheadings. These materials have sparked public debate, though their authenticity and context have not been independently confirmed.

There are also claims that weapons proliferation in coastal communities has increased as a result of the operations of private security actors engaged in pipeline surveillance activities.

Calls for Federal Investigation

In response to these allegations, a petition reportedly signed by Chief Robison Ariyo and other stakeholders has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to establish an independent panel of inquiry into the activities of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.

Copies of the petition were also said to have been sent to key government officials, including leadership of the National Assembly and the Delta State Government. The petition reportedly urges authorities to investigate allegations of human rights violations, unlawful detention, arms accumulation, and other alleged misconduct.

Critics are also calling for a review of government contracts awarded to private security firms operating in the region, with some demanding that Tantita Security Services and related entities be blacklisted from future federal engagements pending investigation.

Government and Security Agency Response Awaited

As of the time of this report, there has been no official comprehensive response from Tantita Security Services or Government Ekpemupolo regarding the latest allegations.

Meanwhile, observers continue to urge relevant security agencies, including the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Police Force, to publicly address the claims and, where necessary, launch independent investigations to establish the facts.

The situation continues to generate debate across the Niger Delta, particularly regarding the role of private security contractors in critical national infrastructure protection and the need for stronger oversight mechanisms.