Governor Fubara Calls on Traditional Rulers to Combat Oil Theft

In a bid to tackle the rampant issue of illegal oil bunkering in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has urged traditional rulers to join the fight against this criminal activity in their communities. The governor expressed his concerns about the detrimental effects of oil theft on the state’s economy and the health of its residents, emphasizing that the federal government should combat oil theft with the same vigor as it fights insurgency.

Governor Fubara’s call to action comes in the wake of his predecessor, former Governor Nyesom Wike, launching a campaign against illegal oil bunkering activities in the state. The governor has been vocal about the need to protect the state’s oil resources and the health of its people, highlighting the damage caused by the soot pandemic and the economic sabotage resulting from oil theft.

The governor also took the opportunity to address the issue of illegal refineries in the state, urging traditional rulers to mobilize their community development committees and youth groups to dislodge these operators from their domains. He expressed disappointment in the Nigerian Police and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps for their alleged complicity in the illegal oil bunkering activities.

Governor Fubara’s stance is clear: the fight against oil theft is not just a matter of economic sabotage but also a threat to the health and well-being of the people of Rivers State. He has called on traditional rulers to take a proactive role in this fight, emphasizing the need for a united front against this criminal activity.

The governor’s message is a reminder that the fight against oil theft requires the cooperation of all stakeholders, including the traditional rulers, who play a vital role in their communities. By working together, they can help to protect the state’s resources, preserve the environment, and safeguard the health of the people of Rivers State.