Udengs Eradiri, a former President of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, has urged President Bola Tinubu to resist calls for the cancellation of the oil and gas security surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services (TSS).
Speaking on Monday in Port Harcourt, Eradiri warned that those advocating the termination of the contract are “enemies of the country” seeking to return the Niger Delta to a period marked by violence, illegal oil bunkering, and instability.
He expressed surprise that individuals, driven by jealousy and resentment toward Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, the founder of Tantita, would campaign against a security arrangement that has contributed significantly to peace and stability in the region.
Describing the surveillance contract as one of the Tinubu administration’s key initiatives, Eradiri said it has played a crucial role in curbing conflicts that previously disrupted oil production.
According to him, the efforts of Tantita have transformed the Niger Delta into one of the country’s most peaceful regions in recent years.
Eradiri, who previously served as Commissioner for Youths and later Environment in Bayelsa State, recalled that local groups such as the IYC and the Ijaw National Congress (INC) had long demanded community involvement in protecting oil and gas infrastructure.
The federal government responded by engaging Tompolo and his company, citing his community engagement, organisational capacity, and commitment to peace.
Since Tantita and its partners, including Mathew Tonlagha of Malon Engineering, took over the contract, Eradiri said, the initiative has ensured benefits reach stakeholders across the nine Niger Delta states.
He also commended Keston Pondei, Tantita’s Managing Director, for supporting vulnerable community members and contributing to local development efforts.
The security arrangement has created employment opportunities for thousands of youths in the region, improved livelihoods, and reduced criminal activities.
Eradiri also credited the initiative with improving safety along major routes, including the East-West Road, through active engagement of local youths.
He alleged that political opponents of President Tinubu are driving campaigns against Tantita because of Tompolo’s support for the President and his mobilisation efforts ahead of the 2027 elections.
Eradiri therefore urged the President to focus on the positive outcomes of the contract and consider expanding rather than reducing or cancelling the initiative.
“Tantita Security Services providing security for oil and gas infrastructure in the Niger Delta is one of the positive things the administration has sustained,” he said.
He added that the initiative has helped boost oil production and restore investor confidence in the region.
“Many foreign investments are coming into the Niger Delta, creating jobs and economic opportunities for our people. Anyone calling for the cancellation of the contract does not mean well for the country,” he added.
Eradiri also praised Tompolo’s leadership, noting that despite his resources, the former militant leader continues to live among his people and actively supports peace and development in the Niger Delta.
