Komolafe Seeks Police Support to End Oil Theft in N’Delta

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, has said that enhanced collaboration with the police in Nigeria was necessary in the country’s efforts to curb oil theft.

 Komolafe emphasised the urgent need for a united front against the escalating challenges posed by the menace when he visited the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun in his office at the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

A statement by the NUPRC said Komolafe painted a “horrid picture” of the menace and the detrimental effect it has had on the country’s economy.

The NUPRC boss underscored the importance of joint efforts to safeguarding Nigeria’s commonwealth.

“After briefing the Inspector General on the efforts made so far by the commission, in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant agencies of government, the chief executive pointed out that arresting the menace requires a joint approach and strategic coordination.

“He said it was why he was seeking partnership with the Nigerian Police to leverage their expertise in law enforcement, particularly in apprehending and prosecuting perpetrators,” the statement signed by the Manager, Corporate Communications, Mrs. Victoria Okefe, added.

Responding to the request, Egbetokun acknowledged the severe impact of oil theft on both the finances and the reputation of the country and agreed on the need for urgent action to deal with the situation for the sake of the growth and stability of the country’s economy.

Although regarded as Africa’s biggest oil producer, Nigeria has been unable to meet the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) crude oil quota for over three years.

The country has barely managed to produce between 60 per cent and 70 per cent of its expected crude oil output during the period, seriously hobbling Nigeria’s capacity to finance its budgets.