Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Condemns Smear Campaign Against Tompolo, Amnesty Boss

The Coalition of Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Leaders Forum (CND-EALF) has strongly condemned recent false allegations against High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) and Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP).

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ibena Rufus Salvation, and Secretary, Elaye Slaboh, the group dismissed the accusations circulating in a viral video, labeling them as a smear campaign orchestrated by corrupt individuals attempting to discredit efforts in combating oil theft, creating jobs, and maintaining peace in the region.

Salvation asserted that those spreading these false claims are individuals who have benefited from fraudulent contracts and corruption within the Amnesty Programme for years. He praised Dr. Otuaro for his efforts in reforming the PAP, ensuring that funds intended for ex-agitators are used for genuine empowerment rather than being diverted by corrupt actors.

The group also commended Tompolo’s security outfit, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), for its significant achievements in tackling oil theft since August 2022. They highlighted that Tantita’s efforts have reduced crude oil losses, bolstered Nigeria’s economy, and contributed to environmental protection.

According to Salvation, Tantita has:

• Detected and halted nearly 4,000 oil theft incidents
• Exposed over 700 illegal pipeline connections
• Identified close to 1,000 cases of stolen crude oil
• Shut down nearly 1,800 illegal refineries
• Destroyed over 3,000 illegal oil-related sites

He further noted that Tantita’s work has created thousands of jobs for Niger Delta youths, reduced crime, and helped clean up polluted rivers and farmlands by shutting down illegal refining operations.

The group called on security agencies to investigate those behind the false allegations, warning that such misinformation could destabilize the Niger Delta.

They reaffirmed their unwavering support for Tompolo, Otuaro, and all those committed to securing the region’s oil resources and fostering economic development.