The Coordinator of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited in Bilabiri Mein Kingdom, Yerin Johnbo Ekriyan, has strongly refuted a recent online report making allegations against Tantita Security Services and its leader, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo.
Reacting to the publication titled “Bilabiri Fights Back Against Tantita Security Firm’s Alleged Overreach”—authored by Paebi Samson, whom he described as a self-proclaimed Secretary General of the Bilabiri Mein Kingdom—Ekriyan condemned the report as a “malicious and coordinated assault on the truth.”
He stated:
> “These baseless claims, rooted in lies and blackmail, are a transparent ploy to distract attention from the monumental strides Tantita Security Services has made in securing the Niger Delta and promoting peace. I reject these allegations in their entirety and call for a thorough investigation to expose the truth and vindicate the sterling reputation of Tantita and Tompolo.”
Ekriyan further described the report as desperate and deceitful, warning that such misinformation undermines ongoing efforts to sustain peace and development in the region.
“I unequivocally condemn this report filled with falsehoods aimed at discrediting Tantita and High Chief Tompolo’s immense contributions to regional security. I remain committed to truth and integrity and will not be swayed by such false narratives,” he added.
He explained that under normal circumstances, he would have ignored the allegations but felt compelled to respond due to the gravity of the claims and the damage they could do to the reputations of Tantita Security Services and its leadership.
“The petition addressed to the Chief of Defence Staff by Paebi Samson, who styles himself as the Bilabiri Secretary General, is malicious and entirely unfounded. It appears to be driven by ulterior motives,” he stated.
Ekriyan emphasized Tantita’s unwavering commitment to peace, security, and community development, noting that under Tompolo’s leadership, the company has worked tirelessly to secure communities within its operational zones.
“The claims of intimidation, empire-building, and resource control are pure fiction. Tantita has never interfered in internal community matters, nor has it incited unrest or funded any group to destabilize local communities. We respect the sovereignty of all host communities,” he said.
Describing the petition as vague and lacking any supporting evidence, Ekriyan challenged the petitioner to present credible proof of his claims.
“The petition is riddled with generalizations and devoid of concrete facts, documentation, or credible witness statements. Moreover, Tantita has never supported or engaged in illegal oil bunkering. I challenge Paebi Samson to produce evidence for his wild allegations.”
Setting the record straight, Ekriyan referenced a specific incident:
“On November 30, 2024, Hon. Akpos Semode, Tantita’s Community Relations Manager, called the then Bilabiri Community Chairman, Tekenane, to request his account details so the company could send a goodwill token, as was done for other communities. Rather than cooperate, he verbally abused the caller and dropped the call. As a result, Bilabiri missed out while others benefited.”
Ekriyan expressed dismay that two current Tantita staff—Tekenane Abaka and Ebimene Abaka (popularly known as Small Fire), the latter of whom serves as Assistant Coordinator in Bilabiri—are allegedly behind the false claims.
“It is disturbing and unprofessional that these individuals, still in Tantita’s employment, are reportedly the masterminds of these petitions and reports. Their actions appear to be a deliberate attempt to undermine our efforts in safeguarding oil and gas infrastructure.”
He also clarified that Tantita Security Services has no operational relationship with Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd, contrary to insinuations in the petition.
“Tantita has not engaged or sublet any part of its operations to Renaissance Africa Energy Company Ltd,” Ekriyan firmly stated.
Responding to accusations that Tompolo is building a personal empire, Ekriyan described such characterizations as a gross misrepresentation.
“Tompolo’s dedication to regional development and peace is well documented. To label his work as empire-building is not only misleading but a disservice to the progress he has made in partnership with the communities.”
He reaffirmed that Tantita has consistently prioritized respectful collaboration with host communities and has always worked toward mutual benefit.
“Tantita’s track record in community engagement and peacebuilding speaks for itself. I am confident that any sincere investigation will reveal these allegations as unfounded and motivated by personal agendas.”
In conclusion, Ekriyan appealed to the Chief of Defence Staff and relevant authorities to give due consideration to Tantita’s commitment to peace and security in the Niger Delta.
“We are open to any investigation and fully confident that our integrity and dedication to the well-being of the Niger Delta will be upheld and vindicated.”
