Senate has ordered a probe into alleged theft of crude oil by members of the nation’s security forces and militia groups. This came up at plenary, yesterday, following a motion sponsored by Ned Munir Nwoko (Delta North), who quoted figures on how oil bunkering has impeded Nigeria’s economy.

According to him, oil theft cost a revenue loss of N2.3 trillion in 2023. He alleged that some bad eggs within security agencies conspire with unscrupulous persons in the oil industry to engage in illicit activity.

Nwoko said: “Despite the efforts of certain military personnel and security agencies, like the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) and Department of State Services (DSS) in combating oil theft in the Niger Delta region, there are individuals within these institutions who engage in illicit activities.

“It has come to attention that oil theft in Nigeria thrives due to a troubling collaboration between security forces, militia groups, the local population, and certain employees within oil companies.”

Urging the Senate to investigate the matter, Nwoko added: “In 2022, it was reported that Nigeria suffered daily losses of approximately 437,000 barrels of crude oil amounting to $23 million, due to criminal activities.

“In March 2023, Nigeria incurred a substantial loss of 65.7 million barrels of crude oil, valued at $83 per barrel, translating to a staggering revenue loss of N2.3 trillion.”

The Senate, consequently, directed its committees on petroleum resources, host communities, and Niger Delta affairs to probe the matter. In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio said oil theft had impacted negatively on production capacity. He asked the committees to report back in six weeks. (The Guardian)