Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has called for tougher punishment for those involved in crude oil theft.
He made the demand on Friday during a visit from the Senate Committee on Incessant Crude Oil Theft, led by Senator Ned Nwoko, at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
Ibas warned that oil theft continues to harm the country’s economy, reducing vital income needed for national growth.
He said failure to punish culprits firmly has encouraged more illegal activity, which hurts Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
According to him, the country cannot afford to keep losing its main source of revenue due to weak enforcement and light penalties.
While speaking to the senators, Ibas mentioned the efforts being made in Rivers State to cut down on pipeline damage.
He said better intelligence and cooperation between security agencies have helped reduce attacks on oil infrastructure in the state.
He added that Rivers is working on a more advanced and secure system to track and protect oil pipelines, using technology to increase safety and oil output.
The Senate Committee’s visit was part of its assignment to look into crude oil theft across various production areas and terminals.
Ibas welcomed their mission and expressed hope that their findings and actions would help stabilize the economy.
Senator Ned Nwoko also spoke during the visit, stating the need for full cooperation from Rivers State.
He said oil theft is not limited to land operations, as some major players carry out these activities in international waters.
He promised that the committee would do everything possible to uncover the networks involved and find lasting solutions.
The meeting ended with both parties agreeing on the need for firm steps to stop oil theft and protect Nigeria’s natural resources.
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