Itsekiri coordinators back tantita security, call for probe of false allegations

The Itsekiri Coordinators have issued a statement defending Tantita Security Services Limited against allegations of oppression in their communities.

Debunking Itsekiri protesters, the coordinators claim these allegations are unfounded and may be orchestrated by individuals seeking to destabilize the region.

The statement made and signed by Itsekiri coordinators on Thursday called on relevant authorities to apprehend those responsible for spreading false allegations against Tantita.

Statement in full:

"To National Security Adviser (NSA), the esteemed members of the press, the public, and relevant authorities,

"At a meeting held today 19th June, 2025 here in Warri, we, the Itsekiri Coordinators, are compelled to address the recent protest at NSA office at Abuja and several allegations circulating on social media and other online platforms regarding Tantita Security Services Limited's alleged oppression of the Itsekiri people. We categorically state that these claims are unfounded, misleading, and do not reflect the true nature and purpose of the Tantita"s operations in our communities. 

"As coordinators, we have been working closely with Tantita Security Services Limited management, and we can confidently say that Tantita"s primary objective is to ensure the safe and uninterrupted operation of pipelines and oil facilities within our domain. This is in the best interest of our communities and the nation at large.

"We want to assure the public that Tantita is committed to the well-being and safety of our people. If there were any truth to the allegations of oppression, we the Itsekiri coordinators would be the first to speak out against such injustices. We stand in solidarity with our people and will not tolerate any form of oppression or mistreatment.

"However, we are concerned that these false allegations may be orchestrated by individuals or groups seeking to destabilize our communitiss or further their own interests. We urge the law enforcement agencies to investigate these claims and identify those who may be falsely  using the name of Tantita Security Services Limited to commit crimes or perpetuate violence in Itsekiri land.

"We call on the relevant authorities to take immediate action to apprehend those responsible for spreading these false allegations and to bring them to justice.

"Furthermore, we wish to express our unwavering support for our Itsekiri leaders in their efforts to uncover and bring to justice anyone using the name of Tantita Security Services Limited to oppress our people. We will work closely with our leaders to identify and resist such individuals, and we will not hesitate to take all necessary measures to protect our community from those who seek to exploit or harm us.

"At the same time, we acknowledge that, in the pursuit of justice and security, we cannot rule out the possibility that some individuals may be using the name or uniform of Tantita Security Services Limited to commit crimes or engage in other illicit activities. We urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities, and we assure them that we will work tirelessly to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

"We at Tantita remain committed to promoting peace, security, and development in our community. We urge our people to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

"Notwithstanding, the general public should take note that these are the same set of people who went faceless in the previous protest against Tantita some times last year which led to the press conference we the coordinators held at Ugbodede community  in April, 2024.

"Moving forward, on the issue of the ongoing proposed ward delineation, we, the Itsekiri Coordinators, fully endorse and support the concerns and objections raised by the Itsekiri people. We stand in solidarity with our people on this matter and will continue to advocate for the interest of Itsekiri nation on this proposed ward delineation.

"Finally, we the Itsekiri coordinators are absolutely loyal to the authority of His Majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III CFR, the Olu of Warri and remain subjectes to His Majesty Overlordship. 

"Thank you.

"Signed,

"Engr. Samson Uwatse
Ugbodede cluster

"Ebisan Fenemigho..
Ubagboro cluster

"Richard Arubi
Ugborodo cluster

"Sunday Omatsuli
Ubeji cluster

"Johnson Onire
Aja-Osolo cluster

"Richard Dere 
Coordinator, 
Orere.

"David Hamman
Ugbolaje cluster

"Fidelis Ete Lori
Coordinator, 
Opumami and Obodo cluster

"Emmanuel Demeyin
Deghele cluster

"Abugewa
Ugbegugun cluster

"Ofeoritse Mene
Coordinator, 
Special squad

"Kessington Urunden Ololo
Coordinator, 
Special squad Okogho

"Otomewo Omereyemi
Coordinator, special squad

"Bernard Omaghomi
Coordinator
Kolokolo," the statement added