The disappearance of Mba Prince Ezennaya, 30, following his arrest by the police, has sparked concerns amid allegations of his involvement in uncovering suspected unauthorized lifting of petroleum products.
Ezennaya’s family reported that he was apprehended after raising objections and refusing to endorse what he believed to be illicit activities.
According to statements from his wife and relatives, they have been subjected to a series of threatening letters and phone calls since his disappearance.
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As the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and its security forces appeal to the public for assistance in curbing oil theft, questions arise regarding the sincerity of these efforts.
Many speculate whether such calls for citizen cooperation are merely superficial attempts to portray proactive measures in safeguarding the nation’s resources.
Presently, Ezennaya’s family remains in hiding due to alleged threats from both security agencies and other socio-political entities purportedly collaborating with law enforcement.
Individuals and social political groups that have spoken against oil theft and it’s attendant causes have suffered attacks and opposition even from perceived government institutions.
Recall that the investigation to curb the menace of oil theft, pipeline vandalism, illegal bunkerering among other social vices has been a major focus as it remains greatest threat to Nigeria’s economy, according to the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas.
The Speaker stated the resolve of the 10th House to tackle the problem headlong, noting that oil theft and other oil-related criminalities remain the greatest economic sabotage, leaving the country with dwindling revenue.
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Abbas lamented that Nigeria loses over 300,000 barrels of crude oil per day due to theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities.
“Some of the severe consequences of this include revenue loss, environmental disaster, threats to regional peace and security, proliferation of arms, and a poor investment climate.
“The nation is reported to have incurred losses of oil revenues estimated at N1.29 trillion annually due to industrial-scale theft,” he stated.
The Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Alhassan Doguwa, earlier during his remarks described oil theft as an issue of national importance, lauding the House for taking an important and bold step to check the crime.
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