LAGOS, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) –In a bid to tackle the persistent challenges of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, has called on the judiciary to join forces with the oil and gas industry.
Speaking at the National Judges Capacity Building Workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, Kyari emphasized the need for a special court to prosecute related offenses and accelerate hearings to deter potential offenders.
According to a statement by the spokesperson NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye, the workshop, held in Abuja on Thursday, aimed to address the severe impact of crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism on the industry’s growth.
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Kyari stressed that the judiciary plays a critical role in ensuring the success of security arrangements put in place by NNPC, law enforcement agencies, and other stakeholders.
“The creation of a special court or accelerated hearings will help to tackle these crimes that hinder our economic growth.
“We need the judiciary’s support to impose adequate punishments and sanctions on culprits, serving as a deterrent to others,” Kyari said.
Kyari commended the Chief Justice of the Federation, Olukayode Ariwoola, and the workshop organizers for their efforts. He reiterated NNPC’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the PIA, maximizing the benefits of natural resources for economic and social development.
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