Stolen crude: Reps to investigate content of vessel seized, burnt by security agencies

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the content of the vessel destroyed by the security forces.

The resolution was reached on Tuesday following a motion moved on the floor of the House by Thomas Ereyitomi (Warri Federal Constituency).

Moving the motion, Ereyitomi condemned the burning of the MT TURA II vessel, noting that it could further damage the environment.

He explained that the vessel had 150,000 metric tonnes of stolen crude oil at the time of arrest.

“Setting ablaze stolen crude oil laden vessels will further destroy the well-endowed ecosystem of the Niger Delta region, already ravaged by oil exploration.

“This act, if allowed to continue, will further affect the livelihood and the overall wellbeing of the Niger Delta people, who have fishing as their main occupation,” he said.

The House resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to investigate the content of the vessel.
The House urged security agencies of the Federal Government to desist from further setting ablaze vessels laden with stolen crude oil.

They mandated the Committee on Environment (when constituted) to ensure compliance.