SSA TO THE GOVERNOR ON PIPELINE SURVEILLANCE, COLLABORATING WITH NUPENG & IPMAN TO CURB PIPELINE THEFT, ILLEGAL OIL BUNKERING, PETROLEUM PRODUCTS AND OTHERS

 Press Release by the Edo State Government

Venue: Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Pipeline Surveillance, Benin City

Subject: Collaborating with NUPENG and IPMAN to Curb Pipeline Theft, illegal oil bunkering, Petroleum 

Products Adulteration and other sharp practices.

Good morning gentlemen of the press.

The Edo State government welcome you to this briefing on our decisive action against petroleum pipeline vandalism, illegal oil bunkering, Petroleum Products Adulteration and other sharp practices. This crime has caused severe economic, consumers and environmental losses, disrupting supply chains and livelihoods.

To combat this, we are launching the Pipeline Surveillance, Petroleum Products Monitoring and Community in collaborating with Edo State unit of NUPENG Surveillance team and Edo State IPMAN  Surveillance team:

Key Actions

Joint task force of Edo State surveillance, NUPENG Surveillance and IPMAN Surveillance. Routine Patrols along pipelines and filling Stations to deter illegal activities in both land and Waterways

Station & Tanker Inspections to prevent black-market sales.

Monitoring of Illegal Products from pipelines vandalisation 

Diverting of illegal products 

Adulteration of illegal products from pipelines vandalisation.

Illegal oil bunkering 

Adjustment of pump by short changing motorise at the filling Stations 

Collaboration with Security Agencies for arrests and prosecutions.

Community Engagement to encourage public reporting.

Cease and Desist Order

Effective March 7, 2025, all individuals involved in pipeline vandalism must stop immediately. Violators will face arrest, prosecution, and asset confiscation.

Benefits

Protect government revenue for essential services.

Ensure stable petroleum supply, reducing scarcity and price hikes.

Prevent environmental damage from oil spills.

Call to Action

We urge community leaders, industry players, and the public to support this initiative. The media’s role in awareness is crucial. Together, we will safeguard Edo State’s resources and ensure prosperity for all.

Thank you.

Joseph Okonigene 

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Pipeline Surveillance