Powerful interests working against Tompolo’s war on oil theft – Adeyanju

Human rights lawyer and activist Deji Adeyanju has claimed that influential groups are attempting to undermine former Niger Delta militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, in his efforts to combat crude-oil theft and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta.

Adeyanju made the statement in response to increasing criticism over the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tompolo’s company, which is tasked with protecting oil infrastructure in the region.

According to the activist, opposition to the contract comes mainly from three categories of people whose interests are threatened by Tompolo’s crackdown on illegal oil activities.

“The three types of people against the Tompolo contract to prevent crude oil theft and environmental pollution in the Niger Delta are some naval officers and other oil bunkers,” Adeyanju said.

He further identified another group opposing Tompolo: “the former people given the contract who couldn’t protect the pipelines to the extent production dropped to 300,000 barrels per day; and blackmailers who want a taste of the money from Tompolo.”

Adeyanju’s remarks highlight the tensions surrounding efforts to curb oil theft and enforce environmental protection in a region long plagued by illicit activities and complex vested interests.