Oil thieves behind smear campaigns against Tantita – N’Delta group
The Niger Delta Civil Society Forum has condemned social media attacks against Tantita Security Services, attributing them to oil thieves whose operations have been disrupted.
The Niger Delta Civil Society Forum (NDCSF) has publicly denounced what it describes as orchestrated social media attacks on Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a private pipeline surveillance firm contracted by the federal government. According to the NDCSF, these attacks are driven by oil thieves and economic criminals whose illegal activities have been curtailed by Tantita's operations. They believe the smear campaigns are a desperate effort by disgruntled elements to undermine the effectiveness of the company and discourage its role in securing Nigeria’s pipelines.
In a statement released in Warri, Delta State, the NDCSF strongly urged President Bola Tinubu to remain steadfast against these unfounded criticisms, asserting that the voices raising concerns about Tantita are not representative of the broader public interest but rather are attempts by affected criminals to regain control over their illegal operations. The forum emphasizes the need for the government to stay committed to its economic recovery plans, challenging the narrative that smear campaigns could hinder progress or destabilize ongoing initiatives.
The NDCSF's response highlights a critical aspect of Nigeria's fight against oil theft, which has significantly impacted the nation's economy. As the government intensifies efforts to combat illegal oil activities, social media and public perception play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative. The NDCSF's defense of Tantita points to the broader struggle between supporting lawful economic activities and countering the influence of criminal elements aiming to mislead public opinion.