By High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, and Dr. Dennis Otuaro, the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP). The group dismissed the claims as a baseless smear campaign aimed at discrediting their efforts in curbing oil theft and creating jobs in the region.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Ibena Rufus Salvation, and secretary, Elaye Slaboh, the forum accused corrupt individuals of orchestrating the attacks. According to them, the same people who benefited from fraudulent contracts within the Amnesty Programme are now trying to undermine Otuaro and Tompolo.
Salvation commended Dr. Otuaro for reforming PAP and ensuring funds meant for ex-agitators are used for their empowerment rather than being diverted by corrupt figures. He also praised Tompolo’s security outfit, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), for making significant progress in tackling oil theft since August 2022.
He revealed that Tantita has intercepted nearly 4,000 cases of oil theft, uncovered over 700 illegal pipeline connections, identified around 1,000 cases of stolen crude, shut down nearly 1,800 illegal refineries, and dismantled more than 3,000 unlawful oil-related sites. These efforts, he said, have created jobs, reduced crime, and protected the environment from pollution caused by illegal refining.
Salvation urged security agencies to investigate those spreading false accusations, warning that misinformation could destabilize the region. He reaffirmed their unwavering support for Tompolo, Otuaro, and other stakeholders working to secure Niger Delta’s oil resources and boost economic development.
