Powerful Interests Frustrating Tompolo’s Fight Against Oil Theft — Adeyanju

Human rights lawyer and activist, has alleged that powerful interests are working against the efforts of former Niger Delta militant leader, , popularly known as Tompolo, to curb crude-oil theft and environmental pollution in the Niger Delta.

Adeyanju made the claim while reacting to criticisms surrounding the pipeline surveillance contract awarded to Tompolo’s company to safeguard oil facilities across the region.

According to the activist, certain groups have strongly opposed the contract because Tompolo’s operations have disrupted activities linked to illegal crude-oil bunkering.

He identified three categories of individuals he believes are particularly uncomfortable with the arrangement. According to him, some naval officers and individuals involved in oil bunkering are among those opposed to the contract.

Adeyanju also alleged that another group resisting Tompolo’s operations are former contractors previously responsible for pipeline protection who, he said, were unable to effectively secure the facilities when oil production reportedly dropped to about 300,000 barrels per day.

He further claimed that some critics are simply individuals attempting to blackmail Tompolo in order to benefit financially from the surveillance arrangement.

The activist maintained that those benefiting from the illegal bunkering business view Tompolo’s pipeline surveillance activities as a direct threat to their interests, hence the growing opposition to the contract.