CSOs Urge President Tinubu to Investigate Alleged Torture and Illegal Detentions by Tantita Security Services
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the Niger Delta have accused Tantita Security Services, led by Chief Oweizidei Thomas Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), of human rights violations, including torture and illegal detentions. They call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to investigate these allegations to prevent further abuses.
A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) focused on human rights has raised serious concerns about alleged abuses by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a private security firm operated by Chief Oweizidei Thomas Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, in the Niger Delta region.
Following a peaceful protest at Shoprite, Alausa, Lagos, the coalition issued a statement through its Convener, Comrade Abe Emmanuel, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to investigate reports of human rights violations, including torture and the operation of illegal detention centres by Tantita Security Services.
The CSOs highlighted that since the current administration took office, it has emphasised resetting Nigeria’s trajectory, focusing on economic reforms and the promotion of human rights, rule of law, and due process. They believe that protecting human rights is essential for Nigeria’s progress.
The coalition reported receiving numerous petitions detailing instances of torture, arbitrary arrests, and detentions of innocent citizens in illegal facilities allegedly operated by Tantita Security Services. One such case involved Jolomi Abechukwu from Tisin Community, who claimed he and his friend Bade were arrested on 2nd December 2024 and detained at a facility in Oporoza, purportedly run by Tantita Security, until their release in January 2025.
The CSOs questioned whether the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tantita Security Services includes the authority to arrest and detain individuals, powers typically reserved for official security agencies. They argue that these actions violate Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
The coalition called on the federal government and international organisations to intervene, expressing concern that if these allegations are not investigated, youths in the Niger Delta will continue to suffer inhumane and unconstitutional treatment by Tantita Security Services.
They urged President Tinubu to promptly address these allegations to protect innocent citizens from arbitrary actions.
