The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited to waive its charges for the testing of suspected adulterated petroleum products.

NSCDC commandant general, Ahmed Audi, requested the waiver while hosting members of a Presidential Task Force, Operation White (OPW), at the corps’ headquarters on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to Mr Audi, the corps pays between N80,000 and N100,000 to NNPC for laboratory testing and analysis of suspected adulterated petroleum products it apprehends.

He further sought the support of the NNPC in acquiring working tools and equipment to enable the NSCDC to pursue its mandate diligently.

Mr Audi expressed concern over incessant vandalism of oil facilities and attacks on security personnel by oil thieves and smugglers sabotaging the country’s economy.

He, therefore, called for joint efforts to protect the oil sector, which drives Nigeria’s economy from economic saboteurs, oil thieves, illegal bunkers and pipeline vandals.

The NSCDC boss appreciated the task force for the visit and assured of continuous collaboration in curbing and prosecuting those involved in petroleum-related crimes.

Mr Audi also commended the federal government’s commitment to ending oil theft in the country and sought the support of all well-meaning Nigerians.

Earlier, OPW team lead, Tijjani Mohammed, said the team was set up to curtail hoarding, diversion and smuggling of petroleum products.

He said that the partnership between NSCDC and the team would help to protect all states, including the FCT, effectively.

Mr Mohammed decried the unrepentant nature of smugglers bent on sabotaging the federal government’s efforts to nip illegal oil bunkering in the bud.

He said that the team’s seven border points would require the services of NSCDC Intelligence Squad and legal support for the prosecution of suspects.

(NAN)