Peter Obi slams oil theft scandal as US seizure exposes Nigeria’s ‘crippling crisis’

Abdullateef Fowewe

Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, has condemned the seizure of a Nigerian-owned supertanker by United States authorities over alleged crude oil theft, calling it a “deeply troubling” symptom of Nigeria’s entrenched corruption and institutional failures.

The incident, involving accusations of illicit oil activities, has spotlighted Nigeria’s rampant crude theft, which Obi claims drains billions from the economy annually.

“While the full facts are still emerging, this development is deeply troubling and speaks to a much bigger crisis that has continued to undermine our national economy, our global reputation, and the future of our young people,” Obi stated in a statement signed on Saturday.

He highlighted the human cost, noting how stolen resources exacerbate poverty and underdevelopment.

“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,” he noted.

Obi dismissed claims that ordinary citizens could orchestrate such thefts, pointing to powerful networks protected by impunity.

“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,” he asserted, urging maritime security reforms, digitized tracking of oil barrels, and dismantling of criminal cartels.

He called on authorities to collaborate internationally for a thorough probe.

“The seriousness of this incident should be appreciated and thorough investigation instituted to get the root of the matter. 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,” he added.

Obi concluded with optimism, insisting Nigeria’s potential hinges on better leadership.

“Nigeria has everything it needs to become a prosperous and respected nation. What we lack is competent and compassionate leadership that will prioritise the welfare of our citizens. A New Nigeria is POssible,” said Obi