Slow Legal Action Drives Military To Burn Seized Oil Theft Vessels — Defence Chief

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has revealed that the military’s decision to burn vessels seized from oil thieves stems from frustrations over slow prosecutions and loopholes in the legal system.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, and monitored by our correspondent on Thursday, General Musa explained that despite the risks soldiers take to apprehend offenders, weak judicial processes often result in suspects being released or given minor penalties, allowing criminal activities to continue unchecked.

Highlighting cases in the Niger Delta, the defence chief lamented that vessels used in illegal bunkering frequently return to the perpetrators after minimal fines, forcing the military to destroy these assets to prevent further theft.

He emphasized the need for a swifter judicial system and tougher penalties to support the military’s fight against oil theft, terrorism, and other security threats across Nigeria.

The defence chief also cited instances in the Niger Delta where vessels used for oil theft were returned to operators after token fines, leaving the military with no option but to destroy illegal bunkering vessels.

“In the South-South, we arrest a vessel. They (offenders) give them peanuts, and the vessel is back, and that is why we started burning them. Again, people started talking about the environment, so we are now caught between the devil and the deep blue sea.

“For us, we started burning those items once they are found and arrested, and started having peace. But as long as we keep on arresting them and handing them over, and they go through the legal system, it becomes a problem; it takes a longer time to prosecute,” the defence chief said.

He stated that the country’s weak and slow legal system is frustrating military efforts against terrorism, banditry, and organised crime, thereby fuelling insecurity nationwide.

“It has to do with the legal system. Sometimes, when cases are taken to court, they get knocked out. We have to review our legal system. If we have special courts that will treat cases quickly, it will help.

“We need to review the punishment for offences. When people know they can get away with anything, impunity sets in, and that is critical. You risk your life, make an arrest, and then tomorrow you hear the suspect is released. Do you think that soldier is ready to sacrifice himself to go and make arrests again?” General Musa asked.