Karen Johnson
Tue, Jul 11, 2023 12:25 PM

Pipeline Vandals Strike Again in Lagos, IPMAN Expresses Concern

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Pipeline Vandals Strike Again in Lagos, IPMAN Expresses Concern
The chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Ejigbo Satellite Depot, has expressed concern over the incessant activities of pipeline vandals in the Idimu area of Lagos. IPMAN is concerned about the setback these acts of vandalism pose to the uninterrupted supply of petrol in Lagos and the Southwest region of Nigeria. The association appreciates the efforts of the security agencies involved in apprehending the culprits and calls on the Lagos State Government to be proactive in protecting NNPCL pipelines within the state.

Lagos, the commercial nerve center of Nigeria, is no stranger to the activities of pipeline vandals. The latest incident occurred in the Idimu area of Alimosho Local Council Development Area, leaving the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Ejigbo Satellite Depot, deeply concerned.

The chairman of IPMAN's Ejigbo Satellite Depot, Mr. Akin Akinrinade, revealed that vandals were found scooping petrol on the System 2B pipeline in front of Good Luck Estate, Idimu. However, these criminals managed to escape when the security agents attempted to apprehend them.

"This continuous vandalism is a setback to the effort of IPMAN and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to ensure uninterrupted supply of petrol to Lagos and the entire Southwest region of Nigeria," said Akinrinade.

He further disclosed that a 33,000-litre truck belonging to a marketer, loaded at Ibadan depot and with registration number JND 162 XA, was apprehended at the scene of the petrol scooping in Idimu. Despite the efforts of the security agencies involved, the vandalized pipelines continue to pose a threat to the region's economic growth.

While commending the security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, the Area Commander of Area "M" in Idimu, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Nigerian Navy, for their efforts in apprehending the culprits, Akinrinade called for a thorough investigation that leads to the culprits' prosecution.

He also urged the Lagos State Government to take proactive measures in protecting the NNPCL pipelines within its jurisdiction. Additionally, Akinrinade called on the residents of Lagos to play their part in safeguarding these critical government infrastructure and providing credible intelligence to IPMAN and the security agencies regarding the pipelines.

"Together, we can make Nigeria a better place for everyone," he added.

This incident is not the first of its kind in the area, and IPMAN is concerned about the swift return of vandals even after their arrest. Akinrinade called on the security agencies to be more vigilant and ensure that these activities are brought to a definitive end.

IPMAN, in partnership with security agents and traditional rulers, is committed to fighting pipeline vandalism. The association has adopted a system that discourages theft and vandalism, and they are ready to assist security agents in halting this criminal activity.

Akinrinade also appealed to the Federal Government to impose tougher penalties against petroleum pipeline vandals, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring of the pipelines and other oil and gas facilities. The safety of lives and property around these facilities is paramount, and IPMAN members pledge to support NNPCL by reporting any suspicious activities.

Addressing the recent incident, the Lagos State Police Command confirmed the foiling of an attempted oil theft at the NNPC pipeline in Idimu. The thieves gained unlawful access to the site and were in the process of siphoning oil into their tanker. However, upon receiving information about the theft, the police quickly intervened, causing the criminals to flee, leaving their truck and tools behind.

Efforts to put an end to pipeline vandalism in Lagos and the Southwest region are ongoing, with IPMAN and the security agencies working tirelessly to protect these vital assets and uphold the nation's socio-economic growth. Through collaborative efforts and increased surveillance, it is hoped that these criminal activities will be eradicated, securing a safer and more prosperous future for Nigeria.

Source of content: OOO News 2023-07-11 News

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