In response to the heated clash between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Rivers State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Rivers State, Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Audi, the Commandant-general of the Corps, has taken swift action by ordering the replacement of the State commandant, Michael Besong-Ogar. This decision comes as the Commandant-general expresses concern over the incident and seeks to address the matter promptly.
Furthermore, the Commandant-general has issued an immediate directive for a thorough investigation into the incident. The aim is to gather all relevant information and ensure a comprehensive understanding of the events that transpired.
According to credible sources at the Corps Headquarters in Abuja, the NSCDC boss has deployed a high-powered delegation from the national headquarters to engage with the executives of NUPENG in Rivers State, as well as other stakeholders. This engagement aims to foster dialogue and find a resolution to the ongoing dispute.
It has been reliably gathered that a replacement for the recently removed commandant, Michael Besong-Ogar, will be announced shortly. This step will allow for an unbiased investigation into the matter, ensuring transparency and accountability.
The altercation that occurred along the Olu Obandanjo Way in GRA, Port Harcourt, resulted in a significant traffic jam, causing disruptions for several hours. The disagreement stemmed from the arrest and subsequent forfeiture order obtained for three tankers, which ultimately led to the road blockade.
While NUPENG claims that the Rivers State Command of the Corps did not follow proper procedures in handling the case of the impounded tankers, the NSCDC’s State command has swiftly condemned NUPENG’s actions. According to the NSCDC, NUPENG’s refusal to accept the forfeiture order on the three tankers prompted their disruptive behavior and hindered the flow of traffic.
In an earlier statement by the NSCDC’s director of Public Relations, Commandant Olusola Odumosu, calm was urged, and a promise was made to amicably resolve the situation. The NSCDC emphasized that due process was followed in handling the tankers and petroleum products, taking into account their flammable nature. The NSCDC also clarified that the impoundment of the trucks was legal and refuted allegations of defacement made by NUPENG.
The statement further highlighted that the Command had taken steps to inform the public about the court order, including placing an advertisement in a national daily and Newspaper Surveillance, volume 24, on Monday, January 23, 2023. This notification allowed for objections, if any, to be raised within the stipulated time.
Encouragingly, it is reported that both parties involved, along with other stakeholders, have shown willingness to reach a possible truce. They remain united in their commitment to combat oil bunkering activities, reinforcing the importance of cooperation and unity in addressing these challenges.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has replaced the commandant of its Rivers State Command amidst an altercation with NUPENG. The Commandant-general has initiated an investigation to gather all necessary facts about the incident. Efforts are being made to engage with NUPENG and other stakeholders in order to find a resolution. The NSCDC has emphasized the adherence to due process and legal procedures regarding the handling of the impounded