The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, has called on the judiciary to join the fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which he described as major challenges hindering the growth of the oil and gas industry.
Speaking at the National Judges Capacity Building Workshop on the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021 in Abuja, Kyari urged the judiciary to consider establishing special courts to try oil theft and vandalism cases, or grant accelerated hearings to such cases.
He emphasized the critical role of the judiciary in supporting the efforts of security agencies and stakeholders in the industry, and called for timely determination of criminal charges, adequate punishments, and sanctions to deter offenders.
Kyari commended the Chief Justice of the Federation, Olukayode Ariwoola, and the workshop organizers for inviting him to speak. He reaffirmed NNPC’s commitment to collaborating with stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the PIA, to maximize the benefits of natural resources for economic and social development.
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