14 Illegal Pipelines and 80 Refineries Found In One week in Nigeria

Photo credit: Reuters

n the face of escalating pipeline vandalism and oil theft, Nigeria's vigilant task force has uncovered 14 illegal pipeline connections and 80 illicit refineries over the last week. This surge in criminal activity undermines the nation's Petroleum Industry Act, prompting NNPC Limited's Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, to seek judicial backing to confront these pressing challenges.

Kyari's appeal came during his address at the National Judges Capacity Building Workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, hosted by the National Judicial Institute (NJI) and INVESTIN 234 in Abuja. He emphasized the judiciary's crucial role in bolstering the collective security efforts of NNPC, law enforcement, and industry stakeholders.

Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, to seek judicial backing to confront oil theft

The GCEO's call to action includes expediting court hearings for oil-related crimes, ensuring swift justice through timely rulings, and imposing significant penalties to deter future offenses. Kyari advocates for the establishment of specialized courts or accelerated hearing processes, backed by practice directions and corresponding sanctions, to combat offenses that threaten Nigeria's sovereignty.