Oil Theft: Imo Gov Assures of Partnership with Special Investigative Panel

In his quest to fight oil theft in the state, Imo State Governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, has assured that he will partner with the Federal Government’s Special Investigative Panel on Oil Theft and Losses in Nigeria.

The assurance of the governor was given while he played host to the 11-members of the Panel recently at the Government House, Owerri.

Uzodimma while commending the Federal Government for its wisdom in setting up the panel, stated that the two-factor challenge, which are the Internal and External securities have been compromised.

“I am ready and willing to rescue our economy from oil theft,” the governor assured, adding that he will supply all “necessary manpower and intelligence to help their investigations.”

Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the Panel, Maj. Gen. Barry Ndiomu (rtd), stated that the team visited to find lasting solutions to the menace of oil theft in the state and the country at large.

The Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) affirmed that everything associated with Governor Uzodimma is a success. This, he said, inspired their visit to seek his recommendations in the fight against crude oil theft.

“We shall work with your government to ensure that the perpetrators of oil theft in the state are not only exposed but brought to book,” Gen. Ndiomu stated.

The Panel which was inaugurated in December last year, has seasoned administrators and retired top military and police officers as members.