Pipeline Contract Faces Fresh Scrutiny as Activist Levels Serious Allegations Against Tompolo
By Passman Akpos
A fresh wave of controversy has erupted over Nigeria’s multi-billion-naira pipeline surveillance contract following a strongly worded public statement by activist Jude Gbaboyor, who accused some security officials of allegedly lobbying President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in support of the renewal of the contract awarded to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited.
In the statement, Gbaboyor alleged that certain security appointees were prioritizing the promotion of Tantita and its chairman, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, instead of focusing on addressing Nigeria’s worsening security challenges
He further alleged that the company and its leadership should be subjected to investigations over claims relating to kidnapping, illegal detention, killings, human trafficking, organ harvesting, and other serious crimes. The statement also called on security agencies to investigate the alleged whereabouts of individuals identified as Balamene Karowei and Charles Korubo.
Gbaboyor also questioned why the Federal Government had continued to retain what he described as a centralized pipeline surveillance arrangement, arguing that a decentralized model would promote greater transparency, accountability, and broader participation by communities across the Niger Delta.
The activist further alleged that an “oil theft cabal” was influencing decisions surrounding the pipeline surveillance contract, claiming that the National Assembly had shielded those involved from scrutiny over previous contract expenditures. He also referenced former NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, alleging that he was protected from legislative oversight.
In addition, Gbaboyor alleged that funds connected to oil theft were being used to finance charitable projects, political campaigns, and public engagements involving Tompolo. He claimed these activities were aimed at strengthening support for the renewal of the surveillance contract.
The statement also called on President Tinubu to prioritize tackling insecurity, reducing the cost of living, and ensuring that security agencies thoroughly investigate allegations surrounding an alleged coup plot. Gbaboyor further alleged that one of the firms participating in the pipeline surveillance programme should also be investigated over its purported links to the alleged plot.
He concluded by urging the President to review the current structure of the pipeline surveillance contract, arguing that concentrating such responsibilities in the hands of a few operators poses a potential national security risk.
No Official Response Yet
As of the time of filing this report, neither Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, Tompolo, the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), nor the Presidency had publicly responded to the allegations.
Editorial Note: The allegations contained in Jude Gbaboyor’s statement remain unverified. Those mentioned have not been found liable by any court in relation to the claims reported above. This report reflects the claims made in the public statement, and all affected parties are entitled to respond.
