EFCC cautions against illegal oil bunkering, assures IPMAN of supply stability

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The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to combating illegal oil bunkering while ensuring the integrity of petroleum product supply across Nigeria. The anti-graft agency restated its dedication to enforcing transparency and legality in the petroleum industry as part of its broader mandate to fight economic and financial crimes.

The EFCC further clarified its role in the oil and gas sector, particularly in the testing of petroleum products. This effort, according to the commission, is aimed at detecting and preventing the circulation of illegally refined or adulterated petroleum products, thereby protecting the economy and ensuring fair business practices.

During a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Akwa Ibom Chapter, to the EFCC’s Uyo Zonal Command, the Assistant Commander of the EFCC, Oshodi Johnson, shed more light on the commission’s legal mandate in curbing illicit oil-related activities. He stressed that the EFCC is authorized to conduct forensic testing of petroleum products as a strategic measure to curb illegal oil bunkering and smuggling.

IPMAN Chairman, Comrade Francis Udeyen, during the visit, sought clarification regarding the EFCC’s involvement in testing fuel samples and the extent to which the commission engages with petroleum marketers in carrying out its duties.

“We need to be informed about how the EFCC is involved in our line of business and what exactly their role is in testing fuel samples,” the IPMAN Chairman inquired, seeking to understand the commission’s jurisdiction over petroleum marketing activities.

Responding to the concerns, Oshodi Johnson assured the IPMAN delegation that the EFCC’s forensic laboratory in Port Harcourt, which was recently launched, is equipped with state-of-the-art technology that meets international standards. He emphasized that the forensic testing of petroleum products is a key part of the commission’s strategy to detect illegal activities in the sector and maintain product quality.

“Regarding our testing processes, I can assure you that the EFCC has the best laboratory, which we just launched in Port Harcourt. It is a complete forensic laboratory of international standard, designed to analyze petroleum products with precision and accuracy,” he stated.

Oshodi further explained the rationale behind the EFCC’s interest in petroleum product testing, noting that it serves as a crucial tool in the fight against illegal oil bunkering. He pointed out that some unscrupulous individuals engage in the refining and sale of illegal petroleum products, which are then introduced into the market, posing significant risks to the economy and unsuspecting consumers.

“If you’re not aiding, abetting, or conspiring with illegal bunkerers, you don’t have a problem with us,” he assured. “Our aim is to discourage and put an end to the activities of illegal bunkerers who infiltrate the market with illegally refined products. They sell these products to you, bringing their illegal supply into the legitimate distribution chain. But it’s high time we put an end to these activities,” he added firmly.

The EFCC Assistant Commander also issued a stern warning to petroleum marketers, urging them to avoid any involvement in illegal oil dealings. He stressed that the commission would not hesitate to take necessary legal action against those found culpable in aiding or facilitating the illegal trade of petroleum products.

As part of its enforcement strategy, the EFCC reiterated its readiness to collaborate with relevant stakeholders in the petroleum sector, including regulatory agencies and law enforcement bodies, to stamp out illegal oil bunkering. Oshodi emphasized that ensuring transparency and accountability in the petroleum supply chain remains a top priority for the EFCC, and urged marketers to cooperate with the commission’s efforts in achieving this objective.

The visit ended with a mutual understanding between the EFCC and IPMAN on the importance of working together to ensure a clean and legal petroleum marketing environment, free from illicit activities that could harm the sector and the national economy at large.