NSCDC declares war against vandals, illegal refinery operators
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has declared “war” against pipeline vandals and operators of illegal refineries in Nigeria.
The Commandant General of the Corps, Dr. Ade Abolurin made the declaration while briefing the Press at the NSCDC Academy, Sauka in Abuja on Wednesday after meeting with the State Commandants and top ranking officers of the Corps.
“It (pipeline vandalism and illegal refinaries) is becoming worrisome. It is becoming very sad that this type of act will continue to perpetuate in our economy. It has affected almost every fabric of our economy.
“I want to use this opportunity to advise vandals and illegal petroleum refineries operators to go and look for legitimate business to do. Their time is up.”
While acknowledging that the Corps was experiencing some challenges in its fight against the vandals and illegal oil refineries operators, the Corps’ boss maintained that it would no longer be an easy ride for the criminals.
Wake up call
Dr. Abolurin who charged the principal officers to go back to their respective Commands to implement measures to end the worrisome development.
“I want you to go back to your commands and put a stop to illegal refineries and vandalism.
“I’m sounding a note of warning to members (men and officers of the Corps) that for now, illegal oil refineries, which are being practiced in most suburbs should be a thing of the past.
“We have to resynagise, partner and collaborate with other stakeholders…in order to achieved our set objectives.
He revealed that the Corps was putting plans on ground to improve it’s intelligence gathering capabilities, stressing that it is the only way to effectively prevent and manage criminal activities.
Dr. Abolurin charged his men to work closely with the public, especially the traditional rulers, in performing their functions.
Stakeholders forum for August
Meanwhile, the Commandant General announced a stakeholders forum slated for August this year to discuss ways to tackle insecurity in the country.
“…that is why we have also deem it fit to have all stakeholders forum on the protection of critical infrastructure which being jointly organised through the office of National Security Adviser.”
He noted that new strategies will be devised at the forum that will help address criminal activities in Nigeria.