NSCDC arrests NNPCL truck driver over diversion of 10,000 liters fuel

The Osun Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has apprehended Afeez Adegbola, a truck driver for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, for allegedly misappropriating 10,000 liters of petrol belonging to the company.

State Commandant Mr. Igbalawole Sotiyo made the announcement on Saturday while presenting the suspect and his two assistants in Osogbo.

Sotiyo explained that the suspects were taken into custody on Friday at approximately 8:21 PM while operating the NNPCL truck. He noted that Adegbola had picked up 40,000 liters of petrol at the Pinnacle Distribution Depot in Eleko, Lagos State.

The waybill indicated that the fuel was intended for delivery at the NNPCL Mega station in Osogbo. However, following a tip-off, NSCDC officers tracked the truck, which bore the registration number AGG 959 XA, and found that only 30,000 liters had been delivered to the NNPCL station.

Adegbola was arrested while offloading the remaining 10,000 liters at TEMPOLA filling station in Ikirun, located in the Ifelodun Local Government Area.

According to the commandant, the suspects confessed that the entire load of 40,000 liters was meant for the NNPCL Mega station, but they were instructed by their employer to deliver only 30,000 liters, directing the leftover to a private filling station in Ikirun.

Sotiyo condemned the act, labeling it economic sabotage and theft. “This is a direct act of sabotage against the state. They are working against national interests,” he stated.

He further warned stakeholders involved in the distribution of petroleum products across the country that anyone caught undermining government efforts will face arrest and prosecution.

“I urge NNPCL managers and supervisors nationwide to collaborate with the NSCDC to ensure that those who commit acts of sabotage are held accountable,” he added.

As the new commandant, Sotiyo asserted, “I want to let the people of Osun State know that there is a new sheriff in town. It’s no longer business as usual. Those engaged in criminal activities must change their ways or be prepared to face the consequences.”

He concluded by assuring that once investigations are complete, the suspects would be brought before the court.