The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has uncovered 122 illegal oil refining sites in the past week across the Niger Delta region, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat oil theft and vandalism.
In a documentary released by NNPCL on Tuesday, the company detailed its recent findings and actions taken against illicit oil activities. The report revealed that a filling station in Akwa Ibom State was sealed for selling illegally refined fuel to motorists.
Additionally, NNPCL identified and removed 65 illegal pipeline connections in Rivers State and other areas within the oil-rich Niger Delta region. “A total of 310 incidents were recorded between May 18 and 24 across the Niger Delta region,” NNPCL disclosed, showcasing the scale of the issue.
Our correspondent learned that the illegal filling station was located at Grey Creek in Akwa Ibom State. The discovered illegal refineries were situated in Tomble II, III, IV, and Umuajuloke in Rivers State, as well as Oporomor III, Eduwini, and Ajatiton in Bayelsa State.
Vandalised wellheads were reported in Tomble IV, Rivers State, and Egbema in Imo State. A pit filled with crude oil from a vandalised wellhead was also discovered, indicating severe environmental and economic damage.
NNPCL’s efforts also led to the discovery of five illegal storage sites where oil was stored in sacks, pits, cans, and a filling station. Twenty vehicles, including a tanker, were seized in Delta and Imo states. Furthermore, 29 boats transporting crude oil or illegally refined products were intercepted.
These discoveries underline the ongoing challenges faced by NNPCL and the Nigerian government in their fight against oil theft and vandalism, which significantly impact the country’s economy and environmental safety. The energy company’s proactive measures aim to curb these illegal activities and protect Nigeria’s vital oil infrastructure.
