Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has voiced concerns about alleged collaboration between some army officers and an oil company in efforts to combat illegal oil bunkering in the state.
During a recent visit by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, Governor Fubara discussed the suspected involvement of officers attached to a specific company in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni Local Council.
Governor Fubara emphasized that his administration is committed to curbing illegal bunkering activities. However, he claimed that certain Nigerian Army officers in Ahoada East and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni local councils have been compromised.
“One special problem that we have here is the issue of bunkering. In some parts of the state, in Ahoada East and Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni, most of the bunkering activities there, we believe, are subsisting because there is this cooperation between the Army and top oil companies,” Governor Fubara stated.
He cited an example of a construction project in Ogba-Egbema-Ndoni, where the military hindered progress, allegedly due to their association with the oil company.
Governor Fubara expressed his efforts to resolve the issue but mentioned challenges arising from the vested interests of the officers involved. He urged the Chief of Army Staff to address this matter and emphasized that cooperation with any company should not grant individuals the authority to dictate state affairs.
In response, Chief of Army Staff Lagbaja expressed his appreciation for Governor Fubara’s support and cooperation with the army. He highlighted the positive impact of their collaboration in maintaining peace and stability in the state.