The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr Ahmed Audi, has issued a strong warning to commandants in the Niger Delta States to eliminate economic saboteurs, vandals, criminals, and oil thieves in the region. This directive comes in response to President Bola Tinubu’s earlier order to eradicate all criminal activities that hinder the growth of the oil sector.
In a statement by the NSCDC spokesperson, Olusola Odumosu, it was emphasized that the Commandant General summoned the commandants of the Niger Delta states to the Corps’ National Headquarters in Abuja and instructed them to strengthen their anti-vandal units to combat oil theft and vandalism of critical national assets.
The Commandant General highlighted that the President has declared zero tolerance for crude oil theft, illegal oil bunkering, and other illicit activities related to petroleum products. He warned that anyone found supporting or aiding economic saboteurs would face the full force of the law.
Dr Ahmed Audi emphasized the importance of protecting the nation’s oil and gas sectors from vandalism and preventing illegal activities that could harm oil installations, infrastructure, and revenues. He urged the commandants to maintain 24-hour surveillance of oil facilities nationwide, collaborate with host communities, gather credible information and intelligence, and work towards curbing the menace.
The Commandant General stressed the need for proper exhibit handling, security of exhibit centers, and adherence to the code of ethics and standard operating procedures of the Corps. He made it clear that his administration would not tolerate any compromise or unethical conduct from any command or personnel, holding the state commandants accountable for oil theft, indiscipline, and breakdowns of law and order in their respective areas.
Dr Ahmed Audi urged personnel to focus on synergy and collaboration with other security agencies and critical stakeholders to minimize crude oil theft. He expressed determination and resilience in the fight against oil theft, acknowledging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to bring about positive change and emphasizing the need to fulfill the expectations of the President and the nation.