Emmanuel Ochayi
Surge in Oil Theft Cases Across Niger Delta
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has reported a significant rise in oil theft incidents in the Niger Delta region.
Over the past week, 221 cases of oil theft were uncovered. These incidents include illegal refineries, illegal connections, and pipeline vandalism, according to the NNPC’s recent disclosure.
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“About 94 illegal connections were discovered across several locations in Rivers State and other states in the region,” the NNPC stated in a video release.
Illegal connections were found on the Agip pipeline in Bayelsa State, which has since been removed and repaired.
The company also reported the destruction of 39 illegal refineries in Rivers and Bayelsa States. In addition, several illegal storage sites were uncovered across communities in Rivers, Imo, and Abia States.
Vehicles and Boats Loaded with Stolen Oil
On land, security agencies intercepted vehicles loaded with stolen crude oil in Rivers and Delta States.
Similarly, wooden boats carrying stolen crude oil were confiscated in Bayelsa, Delta, and Abia States.
Oil Spills and Environmental Impact
The NNPC revealed that oil spills resulting from the activities of vandals were discovered in communities in Bayelsa and Rivers States. The spills are causing significant environmental damage, highlighting the urgent need to address it in the region.
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Arrests and Ongoing Investigations
Fourteen suspects have been arrested in connection with these incidents. The NNPC stated, “There is no backing down on the war on crude oil theft until the menace is eradicated.”
The collaboration between the NNPC and government security agencies is showing progress in curbing oil theft and securing hydrocarbon infrastructure.
Economic Impact of Oil Theft
Oil theft is significantly impacting Nigeria’s economy. The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, Dr. Ogbonnaya Orji, said, “Figures from our 2009 to 2020 audits show Nigeria’s losses to crude oil theft over 12 years at 619.7 million barrels, valued at $46.16bn or N16.25tn. Additionally, between 2009 and 2018, the country lost 4.2 billion litres of petroleum products from refineries, valued at $1.84bn.”
Government’s Commitment to Ending Oil Theft
The Federal Government and the NNPC have reiterated their commitment to ending theft, which has deprived the nation of significant benefits and discouraged further investments in the region.
The government has set up a special panel on oil theft and losses to study and address the situation.
In conclusion, the battle against it in the Niger Delta continues to be a priority for the Nigerian government and the NNPC.
As they intensify their efforts, it is hoped that these measures will lead to a significant reduction and its associated economic and environmental impacts.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
