By ZAKAA LAZARUS, Abuja.
In a move to address the rampant issues of petroleum product diversion, price gouging, and the sale of adulterated fuels in Akwa Ibom State, the State Coordinator of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) paid a crucial visit to the Commander 2 Brigade Nigerian Army/ Sector 2 Joint Task Force (JTF) South South Operation DELTA SAFE (OPDS) Brigadier General Jaafar Ibrahim on Tuesday, seeking support to combat fuel-related crimes in Akwa Ibom State.
Brig Gen Ibrahim described the visit as a significant step in the collaborative efforts to curb illegal activities plaguing the petroleum sector. He expressed his commitment to supporting the NMDPRA in its regulatory efforts. “The Nigerian Army is dedicated to maintaining the security and economic stability of our nation. We will deploy necessary resources to assist in identifying and apprehending those involved in these illicit activities,” General Ibrahim affirmed.
The Commander assured that the alliance will send a strong message to perpetrators that the government is determined to clean up the petroleum sector and protect consumers from exploitation. And it also underscores a proactive approach to addressing the challenges within the petroleum industry, signaling a new era of accountability and stringent regulation.
Earlier, while stating the purpose of the visit, The State Coordinator NMDPRA Barrister Ike Eseka outlined the persistent challenges facing the Organization, emphasizing the urgent need for military assistance in tackling these crimes. He stated that the center is witnessing a disturbing trend where petroleum products are being diverted, sold at exorbitant rates, and adulterated, posing severe risks to consumers and the economy. He stressed that these unethical practices undermine public trust and violate regulatory standards. The collaboration with the Nigerian Army aims to bolster enforcement measures and ensure compliance across the State.
The visit was concluded with a strategic plan to conduct joint operations targeting hotspots of illegal petroleum activities. Both parties agreed to establish a task force comprising regulatory officials and military personnel to enhance surveillance and enforcement.
