President Muhammadu Buhari has reiterated that he will do everything
within his powers to ensure the security of oil installations in the
Niger Delta region.
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| President Muhammadu Buhari |
The President, who was represented by the Secretary to Government of the
Federation, Babachir David Lawal, gave the assurance at a lecture
organised by the Save Democracy Group Africa, to mark this year’s
democracy day in Abuja on Tuesday.
Buhari’s assurance is coming at the heels of several attacks on oil
pipelines by resurgent militant group, the Niger Delta Avenger, with
Chevron Nigeria Limited being the worst hit.
According to Buhari;
“You will agree with me that two major reasons why our economy is in
such a deplorable condition is the slump in crude oil prices.
“It is also due to decline in production as a result of the recent
upsurge in activities of criminals and saboteurs in the oil producing
region.
“While the control of the selling price of our crude oil is not
solely in our hands, the challenge of militancy, criminality and
vandalism is solely within our control.
“I, therefore, wish to restate that I have directed all the nation’s
security outfits to take all steps necessary to secure the oil
facilities and other government assets in the Niger Delta region.
“While our doors are open to dialogue, political and non-military
solution on the matter, this government will not succumb to intimidation
and blackmail by criminal element, coming to inflict further
unnecessary social and economic hardship on the citizens.’’
The President further urged those behind the attacks on oil facilities to desist from the act or face the consequences.
(Daily Post)
