Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has vehemently denied any association with the reported military-gunboat invasion of Igbomotoru in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. The denial comes in response to accusations made by the community following a protest on Sunday.
In an official statement signed by Joshua Maciver, the state coordinator of Bayelsa Operations, Tantita refuted claims made in a media report and during the community’s demonstration. The protesters alleged that the military intervention was orchestrated by Maciver, who served as the All Progressives Congress deputy governorship candidate in the recent governorship election in the state.
Accusations included claims that Maciver aimed to oppress the community and install an unpopular figure, Friday Jonathan, as the paramount ruler, leveraging his ties with Tantita to cause unrest.
The caretaker committee chairman of the Southern Ijaw council area, Lucky Okodeh, also raised security concerns over Tantita’s operations, accusing the firm of security breaches and advocating for a thorough investigation.
In response, Maciver clarified that Tantita, as a private security company, lacks the authority to deploy federal forces but instead provides intelligence to guide federal forces combating illegal bunkering and related activities. He dismissed the local government chairman’s call for an investigation, deeming it unnecessary and emphasizing the collaborative efforts required to address security issues in riverine communities.
Maciver stated, “The deployment of the Nigerian Army and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in our operations is not meant to intimidate law-abiding citizens conducting lawful businesses.” He highlighted the strategic deployment of gunboats in various areas beyond Igbomotoru to combat illicit crude oil bunkering.
Regarding allegations of political intimidation, Maciver asserted his peaceful disposition before, during, and after the governorship polls, emphasizing that only those involved in illegal activities are targeted for arrest and possible prosecution. He urged against attempts at blackmail, affirming the robust collaboration between Tantita Security and the federal government’s security apparatus in addressing security challenges.
Maciver concluded by underscoring the positive reception of Tantita’s operations during the flag-off in October 2022, where community leaders were encouraged to collaborate for the benefit of all without reports of violence, harassment, or intimidation. The security firm remains steadfast in its commitment to its responsibilities in collaboration with military and NSCDC, Maciver affirmed.