
There have been recent allegations that Nigerian military personnel are involved in oil bunkering operations in the Niger Delta. Asari Dokubo, a former militant leader in the region, claimed that high-ranking officials within the Army and Navy are behind the large-scale theft of crude oil. He argued that such illegal operations require sophisticated technology and resources, which ordinary citizens cannot access, indicating the involvement of powerful entities. This statement has raised concerns about corruption and the ongoing struggle to protect Nigeria’s vital oil resources.
However, the Nigerian military has continued efforts to combat illegal oil activities, including the destruction of numerous illegal refineries and the arrest of individuals involved in oil theft. These operations have reportedly saved the country billions in potential losses.
The situation reflects the complex dynamics of oil theft in the region, where both internal and external forces contribute to the challenges faced by law enforcement and the military.