The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Osun State has arrested Afeez Adegbola, a truck driver for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), along with his two assistants, for allegedly diverting 10,000 litres of petrol. The arrest was announced by the Osun State Commandant, Mr. Igbalawole Sotiyo, during a press briefing in Osogbo on Saturday.
Sotiyo explained that the suspects were apprehended on Friday at approximately 8:21 p.m. while in possession of an NNPCL truck. Adegbola reportedly loaded 40,000 litres of petrol at the Pinnacle Distribution Depot in Eleko, Lagos, which was documented for delivery at the NNPCL Mega Station in Osogbo. However, upon reaching Osogbo, NSCDC officers, following a tip-off, inspected the truck and found that only 30,000 litres had been delivered, suggesting a diversion of 10,000 litres.
Sotiyo stated, “This act of diversion is a clear case of sabotage against the state and the government. We consider them saboteurs and enemies of progress.” He emphasized that the NSCDC is committed to addressing such acts of economic sabotage and warned that any individual caught undermining the country’s petroleum distribution efforts would face the full extent of the law.
The commandant further urged NNPCL managers and supervisors nationwide to collaborate closely with the NSCDC to monitor the distribution process and help apprehend those engaging in illegal diversions, thereby safeguarding the country’s resources.
