Ex-militant leaders clash over multimillion-naira pipeline protection contract

Disagreements are brewing among ex-militant leaders in the Niger Delta over lucrative pipeline protection contracts, as renewed security deals and shifting political dynamics fuel growing unrest.

At the heart of the dispute is a multimillion-naira pipeline surveillance contract recently awarded to a company reportedly linked to the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III. Simultaneously, the $144 million contract awarded to Tantita Security Services—owned by prominent ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo—has sparked further controversy.

Sources told Punch that tensions escalated following the award of the new contract to a firm in which the Olu of Warri has a stake, alongside the renewal of Tompolo’s deal by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in October 2024. The original Tantita contract, covering pipeline surveillance, coastal protection, and the safeguarding of oil infrastructure, was first secured under former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The renewal has reportedly angered some ex-militant leaders who feel marginalized and believe they deserve a portion of the contracts currently held by Tompolo and the Olu of Warri’s affiliates.

Compounding the situation is the recent leadership shakeup at NNPCL following President Bola Tinubu’s dismissal of former Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari and the appointment of a new management team. Sources suggest that the uncertainty surrounding future contract renewals has left many ex-militant leaders uneasy.

Tompolo’s Tantita Security Services is seeking an extension for 2025, but the growing unrest among rival groups threatens the continuity of the arrangement. Several ex-militants have accused Tompolo of monopolizing security contracts, even in areas where pipelines run through their own communities.

The resulting friction has allegedly led to increased sabotage and violence, including targeted attacks on oil infrastructure in Rivers State.

On February 10, unidentified gunmen attacked security personnel guarding a pipeline in Okporowo, within the Igbu Orlukwor clan of Ahoada East Local Government Area. Just over a month later, on March 16, an explosion rocked the Trans Niger Pipeline in Aluu community, Emohua Local Government Area, killing a suspected pipeline vandal.

With the stakes high and the contracts under scrutiny, stakeholders warn that the fragile peace in the Niger Delta could be jeopardized if the crisis is not addressed promptly.