Connect with us

Featured

Crude oil theft: Nigeria Govt moves to combat ill, protect economy

Published

on

Crude oil theft in Niger Delta of Nigeria

The Nigerian Government may have finally woken from decades of slumber as national resources were either wasted, or outrightly and brazenly stolen by daylight robbers, especially as it involves crude oil theft.

To that effect, various organs and agencies of the Federal Republic converged to discuss strategies to combat oil theft and protect the country’s resources.

The meeting was convened by lawmakers of upper chamber, the Senate, on Tuesday March 19, 2024.

It was chaperoned by the Senate Committees on Petroleum (Upstream), Gas, Niger Delta and Host Communities.

These constituted a Joint Committee to monitor the effects of crude oil theft and proffer solution.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), et al.

During the meeting, the attendees devised means to combat the menace which has left the nation’s resources at the mercy of thieves.

May be an image of 4 people and dais

Effects of crude oil theft

Crude oil theft has in Nigeria has been a persistent challenge, impacting both production and revenue.

Below are some significant effects of crude oil theft:

1. Extent of Theft

Nigeria faces significant crude oil theft, with billions of Dollars’ worth lost to this illegal activity within just one year.

Nigerian authorities estimate that over the last year, more than $3 billion worth of oil was stolen.

Thieves siphon off oil from official pipelines, leading to a decline in production.

In the Niger Delta region, a network of illegal pipelines has been uncovered, revealing the scope of the problem.

2. Methods and Impact

READ ALSO:  Nigerian Senator, Aniekan Bassey, Calls For Rebuilding Of Niger Delta Region

According to findings, thieves build pipelines in the creeks, through which stolen oil are transport to Atlantic Ocean.

Barges and vessels openly load the stolen oil from visible rigs, resulting to heavy loss to the economy.

This, in turn, exacerbates poverty and debt, as recent discovery confirms suspicions of corruption in the oil sector.

Government Response

Over the years, corrupt Government officials, caught neck-deep into the nefarious activities have played a blind eye.

Rather, it was private security firms, instead of the assigned authorities, that have discovered the illegal pipelines.

The security outfit contracted for the job was Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo)’s Tantita Security.

Tompolo, presently a community leader, now guards the same pipelines he once attacked as a militant.

The former Niger Delta militant insists that security personnel are involved in crude oil theft, even in areas with heavy army and navy outposts.

The partnership between Tantita and the military is aimed at cracking down on crude oil theft.

In a bid to address crude oil theft, which has remained crucial for Nigeria’s economic stability and transparency, the Senate, under the chairmanship of Senator (Dr) Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, held a round table with security personnel.

Senator Ifeanyi Ubah speaking during the meeting to discuss strategies to combat crude oil theft

Senator Ifeanyi Ubah speaking during the meeting to discuss strategies to combat crude oil theft

What was the outcome of the Senate meeting?

Addressing newsmen over the outcome of the meeting, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who represents Anambra South Senatorial District, emphasized on the need for collaborative effort in combating issues of oil theft in Nigeria.

Ubah also highlighted the detrimental effects of this illegal activity on the economy and the environment.

READ ALSO:  BREAKING: Mission X Complete! Falcons Beat Morocco to Win WAFCON

He stressed the importance of taking decisive action to address the problem of crude oil theft.

Addressing government agencies, he called for greater transparency and accountability in the oil industry to avert corruption and collusion with criminal elements.

According to him, the joint committee will collaborate with security agencies, community leaders and stakeholders.

The commitment to curb the menace, he said, cannot be over-emphasised.

“The Joint Committee also discussed various strategies to tackle oil theft, including increasing surveillance and patrols in vulnerable areas, improving intelligence gathering and sharing among relevant agencies, and enhancing the legal framework to prosecute offenders.

“The meeting was productive and resulted in a commitment from all stakeholders to work together to combat crude oil theft in Nigeria,” Ubah said.

He enjoined the Joint Committee to commit to ending this economic crime in Nigeria’ and expressed confidence that with the laid down approach, this pressing issue will be addressed.

Crude oil theft in Nigeria poses a significant challenge, impacting both production and revenue.

Security personnel present during the meeting

Security personnel present during the meeting

Other verified options and applicable efforts

Here are some efforts and options being explored to curb this menace:

1. Improved Governance and Transparency

Enhancing governance and transparency in oil sector is crucial and regulatory frameworks must be strengthened.

Also, compliance with industry standards should be enforced, while proper auditing and monitoring of oil operations should be conducted.

If implemented, this can minimize corruption and collusion in oil theft.

2. Policing Maritime ‘Choke Points’

The Government should focus on securing critical maritime routes and choke points to prevent crude oil theft.

READ ALSO:  Shettima Breaks Silence: 'I Was Public Enemy No. 1 Under Jonathan'

Security forces should collaborate with other government agencies in the maritime domain to enhance security.

Senators discuss strategies to combat crude oil theft

Senators discuss strategies to combat oil theft

3. Counter-Piracy Measures

Authorities must take stronger action against piracy in the Gulf of Guinea if they hope to prevent oil theft.

They must also address piracy-related challenges to contribute to the overall security in the region.

4. Due Diligence Practices on Refiners

Implementing due diligence practices, especially when approving new sellers, ensures better scrutiny.

Refiners, on the other hand, can play a significant role in preventing the purchase of stolen oil.

More applicable approaches to combat crude oil theft

5. Community Engagement and Stakeholder Cooperation

Local communities and stakeholders must be essentially engaged.

Also, building trust, addressing economic challenges, and involving communities in safeguarding oil facilities can deter crude oil theft.

May be an image of 13 people

6. Investment in Security and Surveillance

The relevant authorities must allocate resources to improve security infrastructure, surveillance, and monitoring of pipelines and facilities.

If and when adequate security measures are in place, these can deter criminals and reduce crude oil theft incidents.

7. Collaboration with Business Leaders and Experts

Experts, geologists, and industry leaders should be engaged, which can, in turn lead to innovative solutions.

Finally, a multifaceted approach involving regulation, security, community engagement, and collaboration must be deployed to combat oil theft in Nigeria.

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Featured

VIDEO: Soludo’s government under fire over alleged fatal attack on businessman

DDM News

Published

on

(DDM) – A disturbing case of alleged brutality by revenue enforcement agents in Anambra State has sparked outrage across the state and beyond.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the deceased, identified as Mr. Okechukwu Theophilus Akaneme, a former chairman of the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, reportedly suffered fatal injuries after being beaten by state revenue agents on October 11 last year.

Eyewitness accounts claim the assault stemmed from a dispute over unpaid waste management fees.

Family sources stated that Mr. Akaneme, who was reportedly in good health before the incident, sustained a severe spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed from the shoulders down.

Despite being rushed to the hospital and admitted into the intensive care unit, the businessman never fully recovered.

Medical expenses reportedly soared to ₦80 million, of which the Anambra State Government allegedly paid only ₦40 million, leaving the bereaved family with an outstanding debt of ₦40 million.

Critics say this tragic incident underscores what they describe as a culture of “revenue enforcement rascality” under Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.

Business leaders argue that the practice of aggressive tax enforcement is driving fear among traders and investors in Anambra.

The video that went viral, obtained by DDM, named Mr. Joseph Okoye of Aswama as the alleged leader of the team that attacked Akaneme.

Police officers who reportedly accompanied the enforcement team have also been accused of complicity in the incident.

Sources close to the case say the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State has yet to make arrests, raising concerns about possible compromise or incompetence.

READ ALSO:  Just in: Outrage in Kaduna: Protesters defy security as Tinubu’s visit turns chaotic

The victim’s family has called on the state government to take responsibility, prosecute those involved, and provide adequate compensation beyond partial hospital payments.

Human rights advocates have also joined the call for justice, warning that the impunity surrounding such incidents erodes public confidence in government institutions.

Critics argue that the value placed on human life under the current administration appears alarmingly low, citing similar complaints of excessive force by state task forces in the past.

Governor Soludo, a professor of economics and former Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, is facing mounting pressure to respond to allegations that his administration tolerates reckless enforcement practices.

Analysts say the incident could damage Anambra’s image as a safe and viable destination for investors.

Security and respect for human rights, they argue, are prerequisites for attracting major investments and fostering economic growth.

Political observers believe the government’s response to this case will be a major test of its commitment to justice, transparency, and the rule of law.

As public outrage grows, civil society groups, including the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM), are reportedly considering mass campaigns to demand accountability.

The late Mr. Akaneme has since been buried, but his family remains burdened by financial debt and grief.

Calls for justice continue to echo across Anambra, with residents asking how much value Governor Soludo places on the life of an ordinary citizen.

The police, the government, and all agencies involved are yet to issue a comprehensive statement addressing these allegations.

 

🚨 Follow DDM WhatsApp channel Now!

Get breaking news, hot gist, and updates FIRST!

READ ALSO:  Adeleke under fire as Osun APC condemns visit to Bisi Akande

*📲 Click to join 👇* https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vajkwdc4dTnFHl19vW3g

*Apply at the link below and Start Your Tech Journey:*

👇🏽

https://www.ddm.media/cohort-6

Continue Reading

Featured

2027: PDP Southern leaders meet in Lagos, vow unity before zoning debate

DDM News

Published

on

(DDM) – Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has stressed that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) must be fully united before serious talks on its 2027 presidential candidate can begin.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the call came during the PDP Southern Zoning Consultative Summit held in Ikeja, Lagos, where top party stakeholders convened to deliberate on internal reforms and a credible zoning formula ahead of the party’s national convention.

Makinde told reporters after the closed-door session that rebuilding trust, strengthening internal cohesion, and reconnecting with Nigerians must be the primary agenda before candidate selection.

He warned that rushing into zoning or candidate discussions without first addressing structural cracks within the party would doom the PDP to another electoral disaster.

The governor noted that critics who claim PDP is politically dead will be proven wrong as the party regains its organisational strength.

He insisted that the outcome of the Lagos meeting had already demonstrated the party’s willingness to put aside internal disputes for the sake of unity and national credibility.

Makinde emphasised that the summit was not statutory but necessary to engage stakeholders across all southern states in meaningful dialogue.

He added that democracy thrives on consultation, inclusivity, and respect for diverse voices within a party structure.

He said democracy should not be reduced to mere power grabs but should reflect credible engagement that represents the will of the people.

The Lagos summit was attended by prominent PDP leaders, including Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, and representatives of Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State.

READ ALSO:  "Can the opposition unseat Tinubu in 2027? Obi, Atiku, El-Rufai in unlikely alliance"

Also present were former PDP Deputy National Chairman Chief Bode George, Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, and several former governors including Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Udom Emmanuel, and Sam Egwu.

Makinde revealed that at least 12 of the 17 southern states were fully represented by zoning committee members, National Assembly representatives, and party elders.

The gathering also discussed the strategic role of the southern region in shaping the PDP’s chances in 2027, particularly given the intense political calculations expected around power rotation.

PDP’s history of zoning has been controversial, often sparking internal divisions over whether the presidency should rotate between the North and South.

In 2022, the party faced criticism after nominating Atiku Abubakar from the North despite calls for a southern candidate, a decision many analysts say fractured its support base in the 2023 elections.

This historical backdrop has heightened expectations ahead of the 2027 convention, with southern leaders pressing for early consultations to avoid past mistakes.

Makinde acknowledged that winning recent by-elections, particularly in Oyo State, had boosted PDP’s morale and disproved claims that the party was politically irrelevant.

He said the success reflected the resilience of PDP supporters and the commitment of its leaders to reclaim national dominance through hard work and strategic alliances.

The governor stressed that Nigerians are yearning for an alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that the PDP must present itself as a credible force.

He explained that Thursday’s meeting was part of a broader strategy to ensure the party’s zoning formula reflects fairness, justice, and national balance.

READ ALSO:  Survival in AFCON: Ghana dismisses Arsenal star, Partey

He also confirmed that more consultations will take place across southern states and eventually at the national level before the convention.

Political observers note that Thursday’s summit reflects growing pressure on the PDP to consolidate its base ahead of a highly competitive election season.

Analysts argue that the party’s ability to reconcile its factions and adopt an inclusive approach could determine its viability in 2027.

Makinde expressed confidence that the deliberations in Lagos would pave the way for further engagements capable of repositioning the party for victory.

He urged Nigerians to remain patient and optimistic as the PDP undertakes internal reforms to rebuild confidence in its leadership.

The meeting was called under the auspices of the PDP Zoning Committee, chaired by Governor Douye Diri, and was described as a success by attendees.

Stakeholders are expected to reconvene in the coming weeks for broader consultations and final recommendations before the party’s National Executive Council meeting.

Makinde closed by reiterating that zoning, candidate selection, and electoral strategy would only succeed if the PDP first restores unity, discipline, and credibility within its ranks.

 

Continue Reading

Featured

NERCO, COPDEM pushes for urgent electoral reforms as 30-day deadline nears

DDM News

Published

on

The Nigerian Electoral Reform Coalition and COPDEM have stepped up advocacy efforts as their 30-day deadline for electoral reforms nears.

(DDM) – The Nigerian Electoral Reform Coalition (NERCO) has undertaken an advocacy visit to the National Assembly (NASS) as part of its campaign for immediate electoral reforms.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the visit, held on Tuesday, marked the 20th day of the 30-day deadline NERCO had given lawmakers to initiate credible electoral reform.

According to NERCO representatives, the group had earlier delivered a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas on May 9, 2025, demanding urgent legislative action to overhaul the nation’s electoral system.

The coalition expressed disappointment over the lack of response from either chamber of the National Assembly.

NERCO stated that its advocacy involves Nigerians across faith-based, religious, and civic organizations who are committed to achieving a transparent and credible electoral process ahead of future elections.

The coalition emphasized that its demands are simple but critical to Nigeria’s democratic growth.

First, NERCO called for a credible process of appointing leadership at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The group argued that only reputable and impartial individuals should oversee the commission, to avoid bias in election administration.

Second, NERCO demanded the full digitalization of the voting and result collation system.

The group stressed that accreditation, voting, and result display must be instantaneous and transparent, eliminating manual collation that has historically enabled electoral fraud.

NERCO insisted that these reforms are not “rocket science” and have been successfully implemented in other countries, adding that Nigeria must be ready to lead if necessary.

The coalition warned that failure to meet the 30-day deadline would prompt further actions, which it described as more intense than the current advocacy visit.

READ ALSO:  Nigerian Senator, Aniekan Bassey, Calls For Rebuilding Of Niger Delta Region

The group reaffirmed that its movement is self-funded and not driven by political sponsorship, describing it as a reflection of Nigerians’ collective frustration with flawed electoral processes.

COPDEM, the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy, also reacted to the visit, calling NERCO’s push “a timely reminder of Nigeria’s democratic responsibilities.”

COPDEM stated that the National Assembly must see electoral reform as an urgent priority, not a political bargaining tool, and called for immediate dialogue between legislators and civil society groups.

NERCO concluded by reiterating its demand that electoral reforms be passed within 2025, warning that delays would be unacceptable to Nigerians.

 

 

Continue Reading

Featured

Vance faces fierce protests during DC national guard visit

DDM News

Published

on

Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Washington, DC’s Union Station led to heated protests against the Trump administration’s security policies.

(DDM) – Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Union Station in Washington, DC, on Wednesday sparked a heated confrontation with demonstrators opposing the Trump administration’s security policies.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Vance had arrived to host a lunch with National Guard members deployed by President Donald Trump. The troops were stationed across the capital following heightened security concerns. However, his remarks were frequently drowned out by chants from angry protesters.

Witnesses reported that Vance entered a Shake Shack restaurant at Union Station to a mix of applause and loud boos. Some patrons chanted “USA, USA, USA” in support of the vice president, while others responded with cries of “shame” and “we want the military out of our streets.”

The vice president, joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller, greeted troops and thanked them for their service. But tensions escalated when protesters, blocked from the second floor where the officials were gathered, intensified their chants and disrupted a press gaggle with Vance.

Speaking to reporters, Vance dismissed the protesters as “crazy” and “communists,” accusing them of misrepresenting the city’s views on public safety. Miller went further, labelling demonstrators as “elderly white hippies” and claiming, without evidence, that they were “not part of the city.”

Vance defended the administration’s stance, recounting a previous visit to the station where he claimed his family encountered “violent vagrants” that left his children frightened. “People want safer streets, and we’re here to ensure that,” he said.

The Trump administration has faced sharp criticism for ordering the deployment of the National Guard and FBI to patrol Washington, DC, and for attempts to assume control of the city’s police department. A Washington Post-Schar School poll shows that roughly eight in ten DC residents oppose these measures, reflecting deep tensions between federal authorities and local voters.

READ ALSO:  Attack Our Protesters, Risk Total Shutdown - NLC Warns FG

Despite the backlash, Vance insisted he was “highly skeptical that a majority of DC residents don’t want their city to have better public safety and more reasonable safety standards.”

The visit underscored a stark political divide. While some cheered the administration’s commitment to law and order, others saw the presence of troops as a provocative overreach into a city that overwhelmingly voted against Trump.

Outside the Shake Shack, protesters continued to chant as Vance departed, leaving the debate over federal control of DC policing far from resolved.

 

Continue Reading

Featured

COPDEM blasts Nigerian delegation over empty Japan trade fair stand

DDM News

Published

on

Nigerian flag

(DDM) – The Coalition for the Protection of Democracy (COPDEM) has condemned the Nigerian government following the embarrassing sight of an empty national pavilion at the International Investment Fair in Japan.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the fair, which commenced on August 18, 2025, drew global investors, trade experts, and economic leaders to explore opportunities across various countries.

However, Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy was shockingly unrepresented at its own stand, despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a large delegation of officials reportedly attending the event.

A viral video from the fair showed vibrant stands from Cameroon, Senegal, Togo, Sierra Leone, and Guinea, each managed by representatives showcasing their nations’ economic potential.

In stark contrast, Nigeria’s booth stood deserted, with no official present to welcome prospective investors or provide promotional materials.

COPDEM, in a strongly worded statement, described the situation as “an international disgrace and a symbol of Nigeria’s collapsing governance culture.”

The group stated that the incident highlighted a disturbing trend where public funds are spent on lavish foreign trips, yet critical tasks like economic representation are neglected.

“The President cannot lead a horde of officials to a global investment fair only for Nigeria’s stand to be empty,” COPDEM declared.

“This is more than incompetence; it is a clear sign that the welfare of the country is secondary to political pageantry.”

The International Investment Fair, hosted annually in Tokyo, Japan, provides a platform for countries to present business opportunities, forge trade partnerships, and attract foreign direct investment.

Analysts say Nigeria’s absence at its own pavilion represents a costly missed opportunity, especially as the nation battles economic instability and declining investor confidence.

READ ALSO:  "Can the opposition unseat Tinubu in 2027? Obi, Atiku, El-Rufai in unlikely alliance"

COPDEM further called for an immediate probe into the delegation’s activities in Japan and demanded a public explanation from the Ministry of Trade, Investment and Industry.

The group warned that such blunders could further damage Nigeria’s international image and reinforce perceptions of mismanagement at the highest levels.

Meanwhile, social media users flooded platforms with critical comments, describing the incident as “a national embarrassment” and questioning how much was spent on the trip.

The fair continues until August 22, 2025, but critics say the damage to Nigeria’s reputation has already been done.

 

Continue Reading

Latest from DDM TV

Latest Updates

The Caricature Called Nigerian Judiciary: I Discovered Forgery After Court Had Already Accepted It <p><span style='color:#808080;font-size:18px;'><i>By Basil Odilim</i></span></p>

VIRAL VIDEO: Moment Yahaya Bello Orders Kogi State House Members to Sit on Floor, Gives Strict Directives

Why Every Nigerian Should Learn Combat Skills — CDS

Police Arrest Fake Doctor as Woman Dies During Abortion

Trump Orders Review of 55 Million US Visa Holders in Mega Crackdown

2027: ADC Coalition Deceiving Nigerians – Baba-Ahmed

Tinubu Secures Fresh $238m Loan from Japan

‘Gate of Hell’ Will Open on Gaza’– Israeli Defence Issues Finally Warning to Hamas

NAFDAC Raises Alarm as Fake Cowbell Milk Floods Nigerian Markets

‘Misplaced Priority’: Peter Obi Blasts FG’s ₦142bn Bus Terminal Project

Subscribe to DDM Newsletter for Latest News

Trending

Copyright © 2023 -2024 Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) www.diasporadigitalmedia.com. All Rights Reserved . NOTE: All opinion articles published on Diaspora Digital Media are ENTIRELY those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publishers.

Get Notifications from DDM News Yes please No thanks