Oil theft: There’s urgent need to overhaul surveillance systems, says reps panel

The house of representatives special committee on oil theft has called for an immediate overhaul of the nation’s surveillance systems to tackle “the menace”.

Alhassan Ado-Doguwa, chairman of the committee, said this at the weekend during a visit to Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff, in Abuja.

Crude oil theft has cost Nigeria billions in lost revenue.

The lawmaker said the committee, set up on November 22 by Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, is entrusted with the investigation of the “intricate web” of oil theft and losses within the nation’s oil and gas sector.

He said the committee’s mandate involves investigating the MT Kali, a vessel containing 200,000 barrels of allegedly stolen crude oil impounded by Tantita Security Services in Bayelsa.

The legislator said the task of the panel extends to “scrutinising the involvement of various elements, ranging from illicit entities and local communities, to corporate employees and security forces”.

“Our immediate plan includes an investigative visit to the site of this incident in the southern Ijaw local government area of Bayelsa state and the Delta state location where the vessel is secured,” he said.

“In this regard, we earnestly seek the support and cooperation of the chief of defence staff to facilitate this critical mission.

“We laud the prompt and decisive action taken by the chief of defence staff on the 17th of January 2024, directing the chief of defence intelligence to initiate an in-depth investigation into this case.

“This proactive response is a testament to President Tinubu’s administration’s unwavering commitment to confronting and eradicating this plague from our nation.

“However, the emergence of this theft has raised several alarming questions. The journey of MT Kali, spanning from Lagos to Bayelsa, and its ability to operate undetected on Nigerian waters for such an extended period, despite our advanced surveillance systems, namely the navy’s falcon eye and NIMASA’s deep blue project, is deeply concerning.

“The security risks and implications of such an incident cannot be overstated. This scenario points to the urgent need for a comprehensive review and overhaul of our surveillance and security measures.

“It also underscores the importance of unravelling the intricate networks involved in these illicit activities, which seem to include international collaborations.

“As we embark on this vital mission, guided by sections 62, 88, and 89 of the Nigerian constitution, we call upon the chief of defence staff, all security and law enforcement agencies, stakeholders in the oil and gas sector, and every patriotic Nigerian to join hands with us.

“Your support and collaboration are indispensable in our quest to bring an end to this menace.”

The lawmaker said crude oil theft can be successfully addressed if state actors are decisive in their efforts.