In a shocking revelation, security agencies have accused several Ministries, Department and Agencies (MDAs) of the Federal Government, as well as oil companies and communities in the Niger Delta, of colluding to steal Nigeria's oil. The accusations surfaced during a hearing before the House of Representatives ad hoc committee, which is investigating crude oil theft and the loss of revenue from the oil and gas sector, in Abuja on Thursday.
Brigadier-General Gabriel Esho, representing the Nigerian Army, stated that those responsible for oil theft are often encouraged by certain agencies within the Federal Government. He emphasized that international actors are the main perpetrators, lifting crude oil beyond approved licenses. Additionally, Esho mentioned that employees of oil companies also play a role in sabotaging operations, and the issue of militancy exacerbates the problem. He further explained that the high market demand for oil products leads to extensive community involvement in bunkering and illegal refineries.
To combat oil theft in Nigeria, Esho advocated for local participation and investment in technology, prosecution of oil theft cases, legalization of local refineries, and the remodeling of existing pipelines.
Representative Alabi Abiodun from the Nigerian Police highlighted that agencies of the Federal Government, along with certain oil companies, contribute to the perpetuation of oil theft due to their skills and involvement, both domestic and foreign. Abiodun commended the police for establishing a task force that assists other security agencies in apprehending those responsible for attacking oil facilities. He attributed oil theft to the attachment people have to their land, often leading them to resort to illegal activities when they feel neglected. Furthermore, he acknowledged the challenges faced by the police in reaching certain areas, thus creating a breeding ground for illegality.
Abiodun emphasized that the proper prosecution of offenders lies with the Nigerian Police, and he called for a holistic implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to foster a greater sense of belonging within affected communities. He also stressed the importance of accompanying suspects with exhibits when handing them over to the police.
Air Vice Marshal Hassan Abubakar, responsible for operations in the Nigerian Air Force, expressed concern about the detrimental impact of oil theft on the country's economy. He questioned whether the money obtained from such illicit activities is then used to destabilize Nigeria. Abubakar revealed that the air force has been conducting surveillance; however, limited access hinders their efforts. He pleaded for dedicated access to the Niger Delta region to combat oil theft effectively and requested the assistance of the National Assembly.
Rear Admiral Zacharia Muhammad, Chief of Training in the Nigerian Navy, emphasized the necessity for collaboration between security agencies and government bodies to tackle oil theft. He advocated for the implementation of laws and policies that facilitate this cooperation and enable the Nigerian Navy to monitor essential production facilities. Muhammad expressed concern about the lack of representation in monitoring what is loaded on the ground, especially considering the pilfering of oil wells and pipelines in the Niger Delta region. He attributed oil theft to collaboration and syndicates, as it involves multiple actors within the value chains of oil production.
The committee hearing was attended by representatives from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the State Security Service, and the Norwegian Embassy, underscoring the seriousness of the issue at hand.
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