The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has uncovered some disturbing details of how Nigeria’s crude oil is being stolen by some individuals with the support of members of the public. According to the NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, recent investigations has disclosed that some Nigerians vandalized the pipelines and connected the pipelines into their homes, mosques, and churches.
According to a news report by Channels TV, Mele Kyari, NNPC succeeded in investigating a recent fire incident that occurred in one of the pipelines and it was discovered that the some of the pipelines were vandalized and people connected the pipeline into their homes, churches, and mosques.
According to Mele Kyari, this recent discovery has a deeper implications. Mele Kyari explained that it is impossible for the members of the public where these illegal pipelines were discovered to claim that they do not know what is going on around them.
Mele Kyari explained that it is impossible for people in these communities where the illegal pipelines were discovered to claim that they do not see trucks coming into the community to load petroleum products and leave on a frequent basis.
Mele Kyari also expressed concern that considering the current discovery, it is difficult to say that some government officials are not involved in the whole mess. According to Mele Kyari, it is worrisome that nothing has been done about the illegal pipelines despite the huge volume of petroleum products Nigeria has been losing as a result of these illegal activities.
According to Mele Kyari, various investigations disclosed that there are around 295 illegal pipeline connections across Nigeria and these illegal activities has made it difficult for oil companies to function optimally.
