The Government of Bayelsa State has assured the military of its unreserved cooperation in ensuring that crude oil theft is brought to an end in the state, News About Nigeria reports.
The governor of the state, Douye Diri, disclosed this when the joint monitoring team led by Major General Jamil Jimoh paid him a courtesy call at the Government House, Yenagoa, on Monday.
He noted that the state will work with the Defence Headquarters Joint Monitoring Team to further curb the menace including pipeline vandalism.
The governor, who commended the military for its impact on the reduction of crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region, also expressed delight that the military is now leading the charge to change the narrative on oil bunkering in the region.
He expressed optimism that the collaboration among security agencies and major stakeholders in the oil industry would go a long way to stem the tide of oil theft and increase production, adding that the state has already demonstrated its commitment in curbing crude theft, pipeline vandalism, and environmental pollution.
He further disclosed that his administration has established committees at the local government level in addition to embarking on advocacy through jingles and other means to reorient the youths on the need to shun crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism.
He acknowledged that improvement in crude oil production from the state would translate to increased allocation from the 13% derivation fund, denouncing the ongoing system where federating states go cap in hand to Abuja monthly to share revenue.
He stated, “As a state, we have actually started working on it. Before now, there have been accusations that the military and other security agencies were involved in oil theft.
“But it is the military that is now taking the lead among other security agencies. I can see the police and the NSCDC also represented in the committee. So it means we are all now closing ranks.
“It is very sad for us to hear that our own military is accused of involvement in oil theft. It is as if there is no end to it and the sabotage in our region. If security forces that are supposed to work with civilian authorities to bring this to an end are also involved, then there will be no end to it.
“So, I’m happy that you are taking this lead, and I can assure you of our support. We will support you and work with you to ensure that oil production is shored up and our environment is not polluted the way it is. So rest assured that at all times the government of Bayelsa State is ready to collaborate with you.”
