Coalition commends CDS for destruction of illegal oil bunkering vessel

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

Following the destruction of an illegal oil bunkering vessel recently, the Environment Protection Coalition, Our Habitat, has commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor for the fight against criminal activities in the maritime sector.

This is even as the CDS dismissed speculations at some quarters, indicating that there was sinister move about the swift destruction of an oil bunkering vessel by security operatives.

“There are various approaches, various solutions to a problem and at any time based on certain factors, certain considerations, available to those that are at the frontline, actions are taken based on the directive which are contained in the rules of engagement.

“So, the burning of the vessel, it is because the thief was caught in the act and the procedure, if you are caught in the act, is that everything you are using to undertake that criminal activity should be destroyed and that was done.

“What investigation do you need that you find somebody who decided to deplore several pumping machines and has several hoses that are deployed to a dug out pit where crude oil is stored over a period?

“It was caught in the act. So, the instrument of operation was what was destroyed. I think it is straightforward. Whether that is the best is a different matter entirely but did they act in line with the rules of engagement? Yes, they did.”

But a prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, called for the sack of the CDS, and described the activity as cover-up.

Meanwhile, the Environment Coalition in a statement on Tuesday by its Convener, Davidson Wariboko, condemned the call for the sack of the CDS.

It said the Armed Forces under Irabor is determined to address challenges in the maritime sector and other criminalities across the country.

The statement added that, oil thieves have caused terrible environmental damage to oil producing areas, hence decisive actions against them is justified.

“They are causing the country economic sabotage and at the same time causing environmental degradation in oil producing areas.

“Since assumption of office as the CDS, Gen. Irabor has met stakeholders in the oil sector, security, traditional rulers and others in a bid to tackle the stealing of our common wealth.

“At no time in the history of Nigeria like now, has the leadership of the Armed Forces shown determination and courage to face the economic saboteurs.”