Pipeline Contracts War! Niger Delta Leaders Clash Over Multibillion Naira Deals

Pipeline Protection Contracts Stir Tensions in Niger Delta....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Tensions are mounting in the Niger Delta as rival ex-militant leaders and their supporters clash over lucrative pipeline protection contracts awarded to Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

The multimillion-naira contracts—covering strategic pipeline routes in Rivers and Akwa Ibom States—have sparked outrage and controversy among former agitators and regional stakeholders.

Speaking to Punch on condition of anonymity, a former militant leader confirmed that the contracts have triggered discontent across the region. Prominent ex-warlords, including Asari Dokubo, Ateke Tom, and Victor Ebikabowei (a.k.a. Boyloaf), are said to oppose Tompolo’s growing dominance in pipeline surveillance operations.

“The Olu of Warri’s contract spans areas in both Rivers and Akwa Ibom States. It’s a multi-billion naira deal, and some believe it should have gone to a Rivers indigene,” the source stated.

In the midst of the dispute, allegations emerged accusing personnel from Tompolo’s Tantita Security Services of attacking other surveillance workers. However, groups like the Niger Delta Renaissance Network and the Niger Delta Environmental Justice Coalition (NDEJC) have come to Tompolo’s defense.

“These baseless accusations are deliberate attempts to tarnish Tompolo’s image and undermine his critical work,” said Abalagha Adawari, spokesperson for the NDEJC.

Tantita Security Services has firmly denied any wrongdoing. Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Head of Press at Tantita, clarified, “Tantita is not involved in any form of criminal activity, nor is there any conflict between Tompolo and the Olu of Warri.”

An anonymous official from Tantita added, “The contract was renewed last year, so there’s no basis for the current uproar. Anyone with concerns should address them directly to the NNPCL. And the viral video being circulated is outdated.”

Responding to the recent killing of Tantita personnel, the official described it as one of the occupational hazards, unrelated to the ongoing dispute.

Retired police officer, August Onyewadume, urged ex-agitators to avoid violence and pipeline sabotage, warning that such actions only worsen the environmental degradation already plaguing the region.

“The Niger Delta has suffered enough from pollution. Rather than fight, there should be dialogue. The government must engage all relevant stakeholders and ensure fair distribution of these contracts so everyone feels included,” he advised.