The Commandant General, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Ahmed Audi, says the Corps has aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s zero tolerance for oil theft, advising oil thieves to leave the country or be neutralised.
He said President Bola Tinubu has a tough stand against oil theft, stressing that oil thieves would not have it easy with his men.
Audi spoke at the Passing Out Parade of Course 10 on Monday in Abuja.
He said the NSCDC under him would not condone compromise from any personnel in the ongoing war against oil theft.
Audi directed his men to go all out against oil thieves and ensure they are apprehended.
He said, “Don’t forget we are the lead agency in the protection of critical assets. We must protect the infrastructure of the nation, one of which is the fuel pipelines. We know the stance of the President on oil thefts. There should be no compromise.
“You must dedicate yourself and do your best to reduce and if possible eradicate oil theft. You must arrest oil thieves and those vandalising our pipelines and we shall get them. We advised those who want to continue to launch mayhem on our pipelines to relocate to other countries, otherwise we will go after them and arrest all of them.”
Audi also warned personnel against accidental discharge, saying that anyone found culpable would be strictly dealt with.
Audi said “We now have a Standard of Operations guiding our activities in the service. You will be court-martialed. In that way discipline in the service (is maintained). This service does not condone accidental discharge.
“If you make a mistake and become trigger-happy then you kill a citizen you will face the wrath of the SOP. Please be careful when you are with your rifle. You are trained to handle a rifle and not to kill unless otherwise. This means you can only kill when you know the person wants to kill you on the battlefield.”