Tension erupted in the Borokiri area of Old Port Harcourt Township, Rivers State, after a violent confrontation broke out between local youths and personnel of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a private security outfit linked to former Niger Delta militant leader Government Ekpemupolo. Reports from eyewitness videos circulating online indicated that gunshots were fired during the clash, while at least two individuals were reportedly shot, although authorities have yet to officially confirm the number of casualties.
The exact cause of the confrontation remains unclear as of press time. However, videos shared across social media platforms showed a tense atmosphere in the community, with armed security operatives and agitated youths gathered in parts of Borokiri amid fears of escalating violence. Residents were seen fleeing the area while others attempted to calm the situation.
Borokiri, one of the oldest riverine communities in Port Harcourt
Borokiri, one of the oldest riverine communities in Port Harcourt, has historically been known for its strong youth presence and strategic location along the waterfront axis of Rivers State. The area has, over the years, witnessed occasional security tensions tied to political, economic, and oil-related activities in the Niger Delta region.
Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited has become one of the most prominent private security contractors operating in the Niger Delta following its engagement by the Federal Government to combat crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism. The company, reportedly backed by Tompolo, has played a major role in surveillance operations across oil-producing communities, particularly in Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa states.
Tompolo, a former commander of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND)
Tompolo, a former commander of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), remains an influential figure in the region. Since accepting the Federal Government’s amnesty programme years ago, he has transitioned into maritime and security operations, with Tantita emerging as a major player in the fight against illegal oil bunkering.
Despite the company’s involvement in protecting oil infrastructure, critics and community groups have occasionally raised concerns over allegations of heavy-handed operations and confrontations involving local youths in some riverine communities. Supporters of the security outfit, however, argue that its operations have significantly reduced oil theft and improved Nigeria’s crude oil production output.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Rivers State Police Command nor Tantita Security Services had released an official statement regarding the Borokiri incident. Community leaders are reportedly making efforts to restore calm and prevent further violence in the area.
