The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), has written to the military high command, alleging illegal lifting of petroleum product by Exxon Mobil at Bonny River Terminal in Rivers State just as Mobile has appointed Adesua Dozie as Vice-Chairman of the Board. The letter, signed by the Authority’s Chief Executive, Mr Farouk Ahmed, and addressed to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor, was sighted by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday. The letter, with the title “Economic sabotage, criminal damage and theft through illegal petroleum lifting operations at Bonny River Terminal”, alleged that Exxon Mobil was lifting Butane at the terminal with the vessel, marked Barumk Gas without the authorisation or participation of NMDPRA.
Ahmed, in the letter, stated that NMDPRA was the agency of Government statutorily responsible for regulating operations at the Terminal. The letter reads in parts, “This unlawful action is being facilitated with the active connivance of Exxon Mobil who have illegally destroyed the locks on the sea-line valve whose keys are in the custody of the Authority. The actions of Exxon Mobil and Barumk Gas constitute economic sabotage, criminal damage and theft of Nigeria’s national resources. “You are by this letter kindly requested to urgently prevent the sailing out of Barumk Gas until investigations into the matter are concluded.” NAN reports that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and its private security contractors, Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, have been collaborating with security agents to arrest those perpetuating oil theft in the country. A number of them have so far been arrested and are being prosecuted.
Meanwhile Adesua Dozie has been appointed as the Vice-Chairman of the Boards of ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria, including Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPN) and Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL). In a statement, Governor Obaseki described the appointment as well-deserved, expressing confidence that she will bring her skills and experience to bear in charting a new course for the next phase of growth for the companies and contribute to advancing the development of the nation’s energy sector. He said, “I heartily congratulate Adesua Dozie on your well-deserved appointment as the Vice-Chairman of the Boards of ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria-Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPN) and Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL).
“Your appointment is not only a testament to your remarkable professional achievements and distinguished career trajectory but also a recognition of your commitment to excellence and exceptional ability to drive innovation and foster growth, contributing immensely to the sustainable development of Nigeria’s energy sector. A worthy Edo ambassador, you have continued to highlight the potential for excellence that resides within our great State. Your appointment serves as an inspiration to the youth of Edo State, demonstrating that with hard work, diligence, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, one can achieve remarkable heights.
“I am confident that your extensive experience and expertise will significantly enhance the operations and success of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (MPN) and Esso Exploration and Production Nigeria Limited (EEPNL) and further solidify Nigeria’s position as a key player in the global energy landscape.” Obaseki added, “On behalf of the Government and good people of Edo State, I congratulate you on this fitting appointment and am assured that your tenure will be marked by even greater achievements and continued advancements in the nation’s energy sector.”
