The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has cautioned petroleum marketers in Akwa Ibom State against engaging in illegal oil bunkering and selling adulterated petroleum products, warning that offenders will face legal consequences.
According to a statement sent to Africa Health Report (AHR) by the force’s Head of Media and Publicity Dele Oyewale, The Uyo Zonal Director of the EFCC, Assistant Commander Oshodi Johnson, issued the warning on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by representatives of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Akwa Ibom State Coordinating Committee.
Oshodi emphasized that the EFCC is fully empowered to combat economic crimes, including oil-related offenses, and will not tolerate marketers who patronize illegal bunkerers. “If you are not aiding, abetting, or conspiring with illegal bunkerers, you don’t have a problem with us. But we must put an end to the sale of illegal products,” he stated.
The Chairman of IPMAN, Comrade Francis Udeyen, said the visit was aimed at strengthening cooperation with the EFCC to address issues affecting the petroleum downstream sector. He also sought clarification on the Commission’s role in testing petroleum products.
Responding, Oshodi explained that EFCC’s testing process is essential to detect illegal activities and ensure the integrity of fuel supply. He noted that the agency has recently launched a forensic laboratory in Port Harcourt, equipped to analyse petroleum products at international standards.
The EFCC reaffirmed its commitment to working with IPMAN and other stakeholders to prevent the sale of substandard petroleum products and protect consumers in Akwa Ibom and across Nigeria.
