⁰Leaders from Nigeria’s oil-producing communities have appealed to the National Assembly to reject what they describe as orchestrated attacks against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Maton Engineering Company. The companies, contracted to protect pipelines, are reportedly being targeted by cartels seeking to destabilize the Niger Delta.
In an open letter to the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Host Communities Association of Nigeria (HOSTCOM) warned that the smear campaigns are part of a calculated effort to create confusion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The letter highlighted Tantita and Maton’s contributions in curbing oil theft, boosting production, and exposing networks that have drained billions from Nigeria’s economy over the years. Their efforts, the leaders said, have also created jobs, empowered local youths and women, and strengthened community participation in pipeline security.
“Communities alone cannot secure pipelines against heavily armed cartels,” the letter stated. “Previous military-led approaches failed partly due to corruption, but the current private-sector model has proven highly effective.”
HOSTCOM emphasized that those behind the smear are likely beneficiaries of oil theft, seeking to regain control of the creeks and derail security efforts. The group urged the National Assembly to support Tantita and Maton’s initiatives, which have not only safeguarded Nigeria’s oil resources but also promoted economic growth and social development in the Niger Delta.
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.
Niger Delta Leaders Defend Tantita, Maton Against Alleged Oil Theft Cartel Smear
