Ex IYC President Defends Tompolo Contract Calls On Tinubu To Ignore Cancellation Demands

Former President of the Ijaw Youths Council, Udengs Eradiri, has faulted calls for the cancellation of the oil and gas surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services.

Eradiri urged President Bola Tinubu to disregard those pushing for the termination of the contract, describing them as unprogressive elements and conflict merchants.

He said the calls were driven by individuals seeking to return the Niger Delta to a period marked by illegal oil bunkering, violence, and instability.

Eradiri defended Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, noting that his leadership of Tantita had contributed significantly to stabilising the region.

The former Bayelsa State Commissioner for Youths and later Environment said it was surprising that critics would oppose a system that has helped restore peace and improve oil production.

He recalled that before the contract was awarded, stakeholders, including the Ijaw Youths Council and the Ijaw National Congress, had consistently advocated for local participation in securing oil and gas facilities.

According to him, the surveillance contract emerged as a response to years of conflict that disrupted oil production, to provide a lasting solution.

Eradiri added that the initiative has attracted foreign investments and created jobs across states, including Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, Edo, Ondo, Akwa Ibom, and Abia.

He warned that any move to cancel the contract would undermine the progress made and negatively affect livelihoods in the region.

The former IYC president also commended Tompolo’s approach, saying his engagement with local communities and commitment to peace have helped sustain stability in the Niger Delta.