CSO condemns ‘smear campaign’ against Tantita security in Niger Delta

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Defense of Human Rights has expressed concern over attempts by some individuals in the Niger Delta region to impersonate its organisation and raise false alarms against Tantita Security Services Limited.

In a statement on Saturday, Abe Emmanuel Kolawole, the coalition’s president, said these individuals hide under the guise of human rights advocacy to perpetrate illegal activities, including economic sabotage through oil bunkering.

He said oil thieves have caused significant economic losses to Nigeria over the years, depriving communities of much-needed development and putting national security at risk.

“However, thanks to the relentless and patriotic efforts of Tantita Security Services Limited. There has been a decisive clampdown on oil theft in the region. This has directly contributed to increased oil production capacity and boosted Nigeria’s economic fortunes,” Kolawole said.

“It is therefore not surprising that these enemies of progress, now crippled by the success of Tantita’s operations, have resorted to desperate and malicious smear campaigns. We strongly condemn these underhanded tactics and reaffirm our unwavering support for Tantita Security Services in its ongoing efforts to protect Nigeria’s oil assets from criminal syndicates.

“We urge the general public and the international community to disregard any false narratives peddled by these economic saboteurs, who are only interested in sustaining their illicit businesses at the expense of national development.

“Furthermore, we wish to categorically state that our coalition remains committed to genuine human rights advocacy and will not allow our name to be hijacked for fraudulent propaganda. In the days ahead, we will be working closely with the media to counter all forms of misrepresentation and ensure that the truth is upheld.

“We call on security agencies to investigate and expose these impersonators who are attempting to mislead the public for selfish and criminal interests. The fight against oil theft must not be derailed by deceptive campaigns orchestrated by those who have lost their illegal grip on the nation’s resources.”