Niger Delta
CND-EALF Condemns False Allegations Against Tompolo, Dr. Otuaro —Applaud Their Efforts In Securing The Niger Delta
**Calls on Security Agencies to Investigate Smear Campaigns, Reaffirms Support for Ongoing Security and Economic Efforts in the Region
The Coalition of Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Leaders Forum (CND-EALF) has strongly condemned recent false allegations against High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) and Dr. Dennis Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP). The coalition described the allegations as a desperate smear campaign orchestrated by criminal elements and corrupt individuals opposed to the duo’s success in tackling oil theft, creating employment opportunities, and fostering peace in the Niger Delta.
The Coalition of Niger Delta Ex-Agitators Leaders Forum (CND-EALF) is a recognized body comprising key former agitators committed to promoting peace, security, and economic development in the Niger Delta. The coalition actively collaborates with the Federal Government, security agencies, and community leaders to sustain the achievements of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) while supporting efforts aimed at empowering ex-agitators and securing the region’s economic assets.
In a statement jointly sign by Gen. Ibena Rufus Salvation and Gen. Elaye Slaboh and made available to newsmen on Saturday, CND-EALF dismissed as baseless and malicious the allegations—widely circulated in a viral video—accusing Tompolo and Dr. Otuaro of involvement in heinous crimes, including kidnapping and murder.
The coalition revealed that these allegations are a calculated ploy by fraudulent individuals, particularly those who have looted the Amnesty Programme for years, to discredit Otuaro’s administration and Tompolo’s security operations.
“These individuals, who have for years looted the Amnesty Programme with fraudulent contracts and siphoned resources meant for the empowerment of ex-agitators, are now desperate to tarnish the reputation of Dr. Otuaro because he has put an end to their illicit activities. Unlike past administrations that allowed unchecked corruption, Otuaro has repositioned the Amnesty Programme for real impact and sustainable development,” CND-EALF stated.
CND-EALF also praised Tompolo’s leadership of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), which has recorded groundbreaking achievements in securing Nigeria’s oil and gas assets and improving the socio-economic well-being of Niger Delta youths.
Since August 2022, Tantita has:
• Detected and disrupted 3,963 incidents of oil theft.
• Uncovered 702 illegal pipeline connections.
• Identified 971 crude oil theft cases.
• Dismantled 1,784 illegal refineries.
• Neutralized 3,063 illegal oil-related facilities.
These efforts have led to a 79% reduction in crude oil losses, which has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s economic
Beyond securing oil and gas infrastructure, Tantita Security Services has created thousands of jobs for youths across the Niger Delta region, thereby reducing restiveness and illegal activities.
Additionally, the company’s tireless efforts in dismantling illegal refineries have significantly reduced environmental pollution caused by crude oil spills and toxic emissions from artisanal refining. The destruction of these illegal operations has helped restore farmlands, fishing waters, and the overall ecological balance of the region.
“Before Tantita’s intervention, illegal refineries were polluting our rivers, poisoning our land, and destroying livelihoods. Today, with the crackdown on these operations, we are seeing cleaner waterways, improved air quality, and better conditions for farmers and fishermen,” CND-EALF emphasized.
CND-EALF commended Dr. Dennis Otuaro for transforming the Presidential Amnesty Programme from a corruption-ridden scheme into a real empowerment initiative.
Under Otuaro’s leadership, the PAP has:
• Strengthened stakeholder engagement to sustain peace.
• Reformed institutional structures to improve accountability.
• Introduced vocational training and business support programmes to empower ex-agitators.
• Conducted staff reorientation workshops to enhance service delivery.
The coalition noted that previous looters of the PAP, angered by their loss of illicit financial benefits, are now the masterminds of the propaganda campaign against Otuaro and Tompolo.
CND-EALF called on security agencies to urgently investigate those behind these false allegations, emphasizing that the Niger Delta must not be destabilized by misinformation spread by disgruntled individuals.
The coalition reaffirmed its full support for Tompolo, Otuaro, and all other key players committed to the security and economic prosperity of the region. It also praised the Federal Government for standing firm in its collaboration with Tantita Security Services, recognizing the partnership as vital in securing Nigeria’s oil resources.
“The ongoing smear campaign is nothing but a desperate attempt by disgraced looters and criminals who are losing their grip on the fraudulent exploitation of the Niger Delta. CND-EALF stands resolutely behind Tompolo and Otuaro, and we urge all well-meaning Niger Deltans to reject these baseless allegations,” the statement concluded.
