By Divine Perezide

The Ijaw Youths Network (IYN) has expressed concern over what it describes as a high-level, internationally orchestrated blackmail campaign against key figures in the fight against oil theft. The group identified the Chairman of Tantita Security Services, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mr. Mele Kyari, and the Chairman of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Dr. Dennis Otuaro, as the main targets of this campaign.

In a statement released on Sunday by its President, Frank Ebikabo, and Secretary, Federal Ebiaridor, the IYN alleged that a “venomous cabal of oil thieves” is behind a well-funded smear campaign. The group highlighted a recent protest outside the United Nations headquarters in New York, which it claims was orchestrated by this cabal to spread false criminal allegations against the trio.

The IYN called on National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and other security agencies to thoroughly investigate those responsible for the blackmail and ensure they face justice. The group further urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain steadfast in his administration’s efforts to combat oil theft, emphasizing the need to protect the gains made in increasing crude oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.

International Network of Oil Thieves Accused

According to Ebikabo and Ebiaridor, the cabal, in collaboration with international partners, is using illicit wealth to undermine national security and economic stability. The IYN described the cabal as a “deadly network” intent on reversing the progress made under the Tinubu administration and disrupting efforts led by Tantita Security Services, the NNPCL, and the PAP.

“It is not surprising that such a powerful group, which has been profiting immensely from oil theft for years, would resist attempts to dismantle their operations,” the statement read. “Their campaign, including the recent protest at the UN, is a shameful attack on Nigeria’s image, economy, and leadership.”

The IYN also suggested that individuals who failed to secure appointments in the Presidential Amnesty Programme may be contributing to the campaign against Otuaro. It noted that Otuaro’s efforts to sustain peace and deepen dialogue in the Niger Delta might be a source of frustration for these detractors.

Call for Support and Firm Action

The IYN appealed to other organizations in the Niger Delta to back the ongoing fight against oil theft and support the leadership of Tantita Security Services, the NNPCL, and the PAP.

“We are shocked by the lengths to which this cabal will go to malign hardworking individuals who are dedicated to their lawful duties in the Niger Delta,” the group said. “Their actions are a direct attack on the progress Nigeria has made in combating oil theft.”

The IYN lauded Tompolo, Kyari, and Otuaro for their efforts, urging them to remain resolute despite the attacks. “The fact that these oil thieves are focusing their energy on discrediting them shows how impactful their work has been in curbing illegal activities in the region,” the statement concluded.

The group reiterated its support for the Tinubu administration’s efforts to tackle oil theft, calling for sustained action to protect the nation’s economy and security from the influence of the alleged oil theft cabal.