MOSIEND lauds military’s crackdown on oil theft, pipeline sabotage

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has commended General Christopher Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) for the intensified fight against oil theft.

MOSIEND’s endorsement of the fight against oil theft is contained in a statement by its President Dr Kenedy Tonjo-West made available to newsmen on Thursday in Yenagoa.

MOSIEND noted that the Joint Task Force (JTF) under Musa’s leadership has taken decisive actions against oil thieves and pipeline vandals.

The Niger Delta group noted that this renewed and assertive approach has provided a much-needed buy-in and boost of confidence for the communities of the Niger Delta.

MOSIEND expressed joy that residents who have long witnessed and endured the economic and environmental devastation caused by these criminal activities have heaved a sigh of relief.

According to Tonj-West, the CDS declared that the “days are numbered” for those engaging in theft and damage to national infrastructure.

“This firm approach aligns with the government’s objective of reaching the country’s oil production target of 2.1 million barrels per day.

“The target is a crucial goal for Nigeria’s economic stability.

“MOSIEND views this as a decisive step towards restoring security and economic strength in the region, an area rich in resources but historically plagued by exploitation and environmental degradation.

“The illegal syphoning and vandalization of oil infrastructure have severely affected the livelihoods of people in the Niger Delta, resulting in an economic burden to the region and country,” Tonjo-West said.

According to MOSIEND, years of unchecked oil theft have led to significant financial losses, deterred potential investors, and caused devastating environmental harm.

“MOSIEND’s endorsement of the CDS’s actions is rooted in its mission to ensure peace, economic justice, and environmental restoration in the Niger Delta.

“The organisation is ready to partner with the authorities to bring long-term solutions that benefit both the local communities and the national economy,” he said.

MOSIEND explained that its recognition of the JTF’s efforts reflects a broader optimism that the Niger Delta’s resources can be protected and managed more sustainably.

The group noted that a strengthened security presence around oil installations promises to safeguard these assets and boost investor confidence.

The intensified security could generate job opportunities and foster social stability in the region.

“MOSIEND believes that the visible impact of these improvements underscores the importance of governmental accountability and transparency in handling resources critical to the national economy.

“The organisation has called upon all stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society, and government agencies, to unite in support of these security measures.

“MOSIEND emphasizes that only through collective action can the Niger Delta secure its resources and restore its environment for future generations,” Tonjo-West noted.

The group observed that the Chief of Defence Staff’s intervention and community cooperation provide a blueprint for achieving sustainable peace and security in Nigeria’s resource-rich regions.

According to MOSIEND, economic security has become as crucial as territorial security, necessitating a cohesive national and local effort to address challenges threatening Nigeria’s oil industry.

“The commitment from the Chief of Defence Staff and MOSIEND’s collaborative stance represents a shared vision for a safer, more prosperous Niger Delta.

“A region where resources are used to uplift communities rather than to fuel criminal enterprises.

“MOSIEND’s support for the task force’s efforts is a testament to the power of unified action in the face of adversity and an essential step toward reclaiming the region’s future,” he added.