See Nigerian Navy Reaction As FG Probes Oil Theft Allegation Against Naval Chief

Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has instructed that allegations of oil theft against Emmanuel Ogalla, who serves as chief of naval staff, be investigated.

According to a report from Peoples Gazette, Ogalla was implicated in fraudulent activities involving oil bunkering and contract-splitting amounting to several billion naira.

In a statement, Henshaw Ogubike, the Director of Information at the Ministry of Defence stated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has a strict policy against corruption within public service.

The ministry of defence released a statement affirming their dedication to maintaining the highest levels of honesty and responsibility within the Nigerian Armed Forces, despite any potential false accusations that may arise.

The accusations made against Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla are of a grave nature.

We acknowledge and honor the vital role of media in promoting transparency and holding public figures responsible.

Simultaneously, we implore ethical journalism that complies with the fundamentals of impartiality, neutrality, and precision.

Premature judgments must be avoided as accusations of this kind can significantly impact the reputation of individuals and institutions, leading to far-reaching consequences.

Our unwavering dedication to upholding the tenets of an impartial legal procedure and equitable treatment means that definitive conclusions will be grounded in substantiated proof and prescribed laws.

As a united front, it is incumbent upon us to uphold the faith and certainty of the Nigerian populace in entities that shield our country’s safety.

The minister urged the need for patience as investigations progress and reliance on justice being upheld in compliance with legal norms.

The Nigerian navy refuted any allegations of Ogalla’s involvement in fraudulent activities or unethical transactions.

According to a statement released on Sunday by Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, the spokesperson for the navy, he referred to the accusation as lacking in evidence and being motivated by ill-will or ulterior motives.

According to Ayo-Vaughan, the accusation is a synchronized attempt by dissatisfied individuals who are experiencing the consequences of heightened determination from the navy in combating unlawful acts such as crude oil theft within maritime boundaries.

According to him, the accusation will not discourage the navy from its efforts towards limiting oil theft and causing unease for those who engage in such criminal activities.

He stated that the responsibility of awarding or supervising oil bunkering contracts lies solely with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and not with the navy.

He asserts that there exist distinct protocol obligations for the apprehension, confinement, and discharge of any vessel or individuals determined to be at fault within the maritime industry.

“It is only after these procedures are appropriately followed that the vessels are ultimately discharged to suitable prosecuting authorities for further handling,” he asserted.

All vessels that were arrested and mentioned in the publication for their involvement in crude oil theft and illegal bunkering are currently under investigation. It is important to note that none of these vessels have been released as alleged.

In addition, it is important to note that the CNS has no authority or involvement in the awarding or management of oil bunkering contracts as this responsibility falls solely on NNPCL.

Furthermore, the navy ensures that all contracts awarded adhere to due process and comply with the regulations of the Federation.

According to Ayo-Vaughan, the navy will continue to follow existing laws and rules while fulfilling its duty of overseeing Nigeria’s maritime territory and detaining any vessels that break regulations.

Members of the public are requested to completely disregard the false information published and not give it any credibility.

“This statement is entirely false and lacks any factual basis. It appears to be fabricated by the writer, publishers, and their supporters who are lacking in patriotism.”…[CONTINUE READING HERE]>>