Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has reacted to reports that a Nigerian-owned supertanker was seized by United States authorities.
The vessel was reportedly impounded over allegations of crude oil theft and other illicit activities.
In a post on X, Obi said he had repeatedly warned the Nigerian government about the scale of illegal crude oil theft in the country.
Describing the incident as a “wake-up call,” the former Anambra State governor called for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind the matter.
He wrote, “My attention has been drawn to reports that United States authorities seized a Nigerian-owned supertanker over allegations of crude oil theft and related illicit activities.
“While the full facts are still emerging, this development is deeply troubling and speaks to a much bigger crisis that continues to undermine our national economy, our global reputation, and the future of our young people.
“Over the years, I have consistently warned that Nigeria is losing billions of dollars annually to crude oil theft, a criminal enterprise that has been allowed to thrive due to weak institutions, lack of accountability, and an entrenched culture of impunity.
“When a nation’s most valuable resources are stolen in broad daylight, whether at home or on the high seas, its people inevitably suffer. Our schools deteriorate, our hospitals remain underfunded, insecurity worsens, and millions slip further into poverty.
“The seriousness of this incident must be fully appreciated, and a thorough investigation instituted to get to the root of the matter.
“This incident should serve as a wake-up call. Ordinary Nigerians cannot steal crude oil, and no responsible nation can afford to look away while its wealth is siphoned off by a network of powerful individuals.
“We must strengthen our maritime security, reform our regulatory agencies, digitise and transparently track every barrel of oil produced in this country, and dismantle the criminal cartels that have operated with impunity for decades.
“More importantly, we must rebuild Nigeria’s global image by demonstrating seriousness about the rule of law, honest governance, and responsible management of our national assets. A nation cannot attract investment when it is constantly in the news for corruption, theft, and mismanagement.
“Relevant Nigerian authorities should work with international partners to establish the facts of this case and ensure that anyone found complicit faces justice, without fear or favour. Our nation cannot continue on this path.
“Nigeria has everything it needs to become a prosperous and respected nation. What we lack is competent and compassionate leadership that prioritises the welfare of our citizens. It is time for that to change.”
