NNPC chief rallies judiciary’s support against crude oil theft

 

●Calls for the establishment of a special court and an expedited hearing

For the oil and gas industry to achieve its full potential as an enabler of national economic and industrial growth, NNPC Limited Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari, has called for the support of the judiciary in addressing the twin challenges related to the theft of crude oil and pipeline vandalism.

Kyari made the call at the National Judicial Capacity Building Workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, organized by the National Judicial Institute (NJI) and INVESTIN 234, on Thursday in Abuja.

In a goodwill message delivered at the seminar, the GCEO said PIA’s earnings have been seriously affected by crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism and urged the judiciary to consider establishing a special court to judge crimes related to the theft of crude oil. and pipeline vandalism or granting expedited hearings for such cases.

According to him, the role of the judiciary has been critical to the success of the efforts of the various security arrangements put in place by the NNPC, law enforcement agencies and other industry stakeholders.

“In particular, it is recommended that a special court be created to try these crimes as they depend on our survival as a country, and/or such trials be conducted with an expedited hearing process by issuing Practice Directions to this effect, with concurrent sanctions to deter potential violators,” Kyari said.

The GCEO also called on the judiciary to expedite the hearing of criminal cases in their courts, timely determining criminal charges and imposing appropriate punishments and sanctions on offenders to serve as a deterrent to others.

He said the NNPC remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the PIA, adding that “together, we can ensure that the benefits of our natural resources are maximized for the economic and social development of our country.”

Kyari also commended the Chief Justice of the Federation, Olukayode Ariwoola and the organizers of the seminar for extending him the invitation and giving him the opportunity to convey a message of goodwill during the seminar.

Signed:
Olufemi O. Soneye
Head of corporate communications
NNPC Ltd.
Abuja.
June 13, 2024.

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