Brig Gen S. O. Olabanji, Commander, 2 Brigade Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has said that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, remains pivotal in the military’s efforts to check oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the country.

He also pledged the Army’s support to the EFCC in carrying out the onerous task of sanitizing the oil industry.

He gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to the EFCC’s zonal office in Port Harcourt on February 10, 2016. Noting that oil theft contributed to the sabotage of the Nigerian economy, he said, “I am aware that part of the mandates of the EFCC is to prosecute any person or group that is involved in any form of economic sabotage.”

He stated that the Nigerian Army would assist the EFCC in the area of information gathering.

“There should be a synergy of government agencies in Port Harcourt, particularly the South-south zone so that we can find a lasting solution to the issue of oil theft, and tackle the issue of vandalism,” he said.

On his part, the Zonal Head, Ishaq Salihu, appreciated the Brigade Commander for his kind words, and promises.

“Your presence will go a long way in not only solidifying an already existing relationship between the EFCC and the Nigerian Army, but will go a long way in the joint fight against oil theft/bunkering,” he said.

He added that the agency had hope and confidence in the Army to partner the agency in the fight against the menace of pipeline vandalism, oil theft and other economic and financial crimes.