In response to a Presidential directive to combat economic saboteurs and oil theft in Nigeria’s oil sector, the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, has issued a stern warning to Commandants of the Niger Delta States to ensure strict compliance.
This was disclosed by NSCDC director, public relations, Olusola Odumosu.
The statement noted that during a meeting held at the National Headquarters of the Corps in Abuja, the CG summoned the concerned State Commandants and instructed them to immediately revamp their Anti-vandal units to effectively tackle oil theft and the vandalism of critical national assets.
It added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed zero tolerance for crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and other illicit activities in the petroleum industry.
Dr Audi emphasized that anyone found aiding or abetting economic saboteurs would face severe legal consequences.
“The purpose of this meeting is to relay President Bola Tinubu’s directive to put an end to all illicit practices in the nation’s oil sector,” stated Dr Audi.
“Oil remains the backbone of our economy. Therefore, you must restructure your Anti-vandal Units to combat oil theft in alignment with the Federal Government’s directives.
“We have a duty to protect our oil and gas sectors from vandalism and prevent illegal bunkering that could lead to the destruction of our oil installations, infrastructure, and revenue,” stressed the CG.
Dr Audi urged the State Commandants to maintain round-the-clock surveillance of oil facilities nationwide, collaborate closely with host communities, and gather credible information and intelligence to counter the menace.
He also underscored the importance of proper handling and storage of exhibits, as well as the adherence to the Corps’ code of ethics and standard operating procedures.
The Corps’ leadership made it clear that no compromise or unethical behavior would be tolerated, and any State Commandant found responsible for oil theft, indiscipline, or the breakdown of law and order within their jurisdiction would be held accountable.
“As the leading agency responsible for safeguarding critical national assets and infrastructure, we must be determined and resilient in the fight against crude oil theft,” added Dr Audi.
