A powerful crude oil syndicate operating in Ondo State, Nigeria, is alleged to be colluding with security operatives, oil companies, and high-ranking officials to engage in illegal oil theft. The syndicate is accused of connecting illegal pipelines to national crude oil pipelines, with over 4,800 illegal connections reported in the Niger Delta region. The nerve-racking thefts are said to be concentrated off the coast of Ondo State, particularly in the Oil Mining Lease (OML) 103/110 area.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, brought attention to the issue, stating that the oil thefts were undermining the nation’s resources. The syndicate allegedly involves employees of oil companies, security personnel, and a well-connected industry expert who specializes in tampering with well jackets for illegal oil off-take.
The syndicate reportedly enjoyed protection from some members of the nation’s security agencies, making it challenging to apprehend the culprits. The situation escalated when the operatives of a pipeline surveillance company, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), led by ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), caught members of the syndicate red-handed siphoning crude oil off the coast of Awoye riverine community in Ondo State.
The Nigerian Navy denied allegations of providing cover for the syndicate and claimed to have arrested 17 crew members on the vessel involved in illegal oil siphoning. TSSNL accused the Navy of collusion and demanded a thorough investigation into the matter. The syndicate reportedly went into hiding after the confrontation with TSSNL.
Concerns have been raised about the lack of a clear-cut inquiry into the alleged oil theft syndicate, raising fears that the issue might be swept under the carpet. The National Security Adviser, Minister of Defence, and the Chief of Naval Staff have not issued public statements ordering an investigation into the scandal.
The allegations highlight the challenges and complexities associated with oil theft in Nigeria, where powerful syndicates operate with impunity, sometimes with the collusion of security personnel and officials. Addressing such issues requires a coordinated effort involving law enforcement, regulatory agencies, and a commitment to transparency and accountability.
