Navy Refutes Claims Of Involvement In Oil Theft

By Aisha Adesanya

The Nigerian Navy has strongly condemned series of misleading media campaigns accusing the Navy of engaging in crude oil theft and oil bunkering activities.

The
Director, Naval Information, Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan who made this known in a statement in Abuja said the Navy’s efforts are not anti-patriotic but aimed at eradicating the menace of crude oil theft in the nation’s maritime domain.

He emphasized, “The Naval Headquarters is aware of fraudulent publications aiming to discredit the Navy’s stance against crude oil theft, and we find it necessary to respond to prevent misinformation of the public.”

Rear Admiral Ayo-Vaughan highlighted the Navy’s commitment to maritime security and collaboration with stakeholders nationally and internationally.

Providing evidence of the Navy’s efforts, he stated, “In 2023, NN operations resulted in the arrest of 23 ships, over 233 suspects, and destruction of 703 illegal refining sites.

He further explained that assets worth over N105 billion were confiscated, showcasing the Navy’s dedication to curbing oil theft.”

The Naval spokesman dismissed the allegations as sponsored propaganda by those soon-to-be-arrested for oil theft, reaffirming the Navy’s determination to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities.

He maintained that Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla’s leadership remains focused, and urges the public to disregard unpatriotic publications, assuring continued dedication to national economic interests.

PR