From Abel Leonard, Lafia
The Northern Youths Progressive Network has called on the Federal Government to prosecute those involved in crude oil theft, following the recent discovery and confiscation of illegal oil assets by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
In a statement issued on Saturday by the group’s convener, Comrade Bala Mohammed, the network expressed satisfaction with the NNPCL’s ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities in the oil and gas sector. Mohammed praised the company’s recent success, which saw the discovery of 63 illegal refineries and the recovery of stolen crude oil products.
“The recent discovery and confiscation of products from 63 illegal refineries in just one week is both alarming and heartwarming,” Mohammed stated.
“We commend the NNPCL for its pragmatic and collaborative efforts, which have led to the impressive discovery of 177 incidents of illegal activities, including pipeline connections and oil theft, between August 3 and 9.”
According to reports, the illegal refineries were uncovered in Bayelsa, Rivers, Abia, Imo, and Delta states. A vandalised and barricaded oil wellhead was also discovered in Bayelsa State.
In addition to the recovery of 19 illegal pipeline connections and subsequent repairs in Bayelsa and Rivers states, 17 vehicles and 15 wooden boats carrying stolen crude oil were seized in communities across Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom states. Sixteen suspects were arrested in connection with these incidents.
The Northern Youths Progressive Network also acknowledged the vital role of strategic collaborations among partners such as Tantita Security Services (TSS), Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL).
, Maton Engineering Company, NNPC Operating Ltd, NNPC Command and Control Centre, and government security agencies in achieving the breakthrough.
“We believe that these proactive measures by the NNPCL will prevent further sabotage of the nation’s economy and restore confidence in the company, especially amidst concerns over the delay in the commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery,” Mohammed added.
The network urged the Federal Government and security agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible for the theft of Nigeria’s crude oil, stressing that punitive measures should be taken against them to serve as a deterrent to others.