The Nigerian Senate has constituted an ad-hoc fact-finding committee on oil theft and pipeline vandalism, as proposed by Senator Ned Munir Nwoko of Delta North while moving a motion to investigate the incessant and nefarious acts of crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region and its actors.
Following its formation, the ad-hoc committee held its first meeting on Wednesday, November 1. During the meeting, Senator Ned Nwoko reiterated the reason for the motion, emphasizing its importance to his constituency, which is the largest oil-producing senatorial district in the nation.
Senator Nwoko stated that the issue of oil theft must be stopped, stressing that no one is exempt from scrutiny. He also added that issues of pollution, gas flaring, and environmental degradation must also be addressed.
“When I moved this motion for this investigation to be conducted, I meant it! I meant every word that I said. Nobody is a sacred cow. We must get to the bottom of who the culprits are; big or small, makes no difference. We must save the country by naming and shaming the culprits. We have been elected to do specific jobs, and this is just one of them. We must identify the problems and strive to stop them. Oil theft must be stopped or at least reduced to the barest minimum.” Senator Nwoko stated.
He acknowledged the importance of the committee, stating, “I look forward to your support in an event to unravelling what seems to be beyond everybody over the years.”
During the meeting, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, representing Abia Central Senatorial District, also voiced his concerns. He pointed out that Nigeria’s economy was on a downward trend due to oil theft and pipeline vandalism, emphasizing that crude oil and gas remain the lifeblood of the country.
Senator Nwokocha noted that the committee is supported by the National Assembly and is determined to uncover the root causes of oil theft and pipeline vandalism and provide solutions.
