Leaders of host communities across Nigeria’s oil-producing regions have called on the National Assembly to reject what they describe as “sponsored blackmail campaigns” against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Maton Engineering Company.
In an open letter addressed to the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the leaders alleged that oil theft cartels are behind the smear campaigns aimed at undermining the companies’ efforts to secure pipelines and protect national oil resources.
The letter, signed by the leadership of the Host Communities Association of Nigeria (HOSTCOM), stated that the attacks appear to be part of a deliberate strategy to create confusion in the Niger Delta ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Tantita and Maton Engineering have played a critical role in curbing oil theft, boosting production, and exposing networks that have long drained Nigeria’s economy,” the letter said. “Their operations have created jobs, empowered local communities, and contributed to sustainable development in the Niger Delta.”
The leaders warned that communities alone lack the capacity to secure pipelines against heavily armed oil theft cartels, noting that previous military-led interventions were sometimes compromised by corruption within the security forces.
They urged the National Assembly to support the companies’ initiatives, highlighting their contribution to local employment, business opportunities, and youth and women empowerment programs in the region.
“The efforts of Tantita and Maton are helping to restore economic stability and security in the Niger Delta. Attempts to malign their reputation are orchestrated by those who profit from oil theft,” the letter said.
Signatories to the letter included His Highness Dr. Benjamin Style Tamaranebi JP, National President of HOSTCOM, along with chairpersons representing Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Abia, Imo, Ondo, Edo, Cross River, and Anambra states.
The leaders concluded by calling on the National Assembly to prioritize the security and development of the Niger Delta, recognizing the positive role played by private sector initiatives in tackling oil theft and promoting economic growth.