Nigerian Army To Partner With EFCC In Curbing Oil Theft And Pipe-line Vandalism
Brig Gen S. O. Olabanji, Commander, 2 Brigade Nigerian Army, Port
Harcourt, Rivers State, has said that the Economic and Financial
Crimes Commission, EFCC, remains pivotal in the military’s efforts to
check oil theft and pipe-line vandalism in the country.
He also pledged the army’s support to the EFCC in carrying out the onerous
task of sanitizing the oil industry.
He gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to the EFCC’s zonal
office in Port Harcourt on February 10, 2016.
Noting that oil theft contributed to the sabotage of the Nigerian
economy, he said, “I am aware that part of the mandates of the EFCC is
to prosecute any person or group that is involved in any form of
economic sabotage.”
He stated that the Nigerian Army would assist the EFCC in the area of
information gathering.
“There should be a synergy of government agencies in Port Harcourt,
particularly the South-south zone so that we can find a lasting
solution to the issue of oil theft, and tackle the issue of
vandalism,” he said.
On his part, the Zonal Head, Ishaq Salihu, appreciated the Brigade Commander
for his kind words, and promises.
“Your presence will go a long way in not only solidifying an already
existing relationship between the EFCC and the Nigerian Army, but will
go a long way in the joint fight against oil theft/bunkering,” he said.
He added that the agency had hope and confidence in the Army to
partner the agency in the fight against the menace of pipeline
vandalism, oil theft and other economic and financial crimes.