President Muhammadu Buhari has said the Federal Government would no longer tolerate the current theft and illegal refining of crude oil in the Niger Delta.Represented by Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, who gave the warning at the launch of “Clean-Up of Ogoniland” at Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Buhari said: “The current oil theft and illegal refining will not be tolerated. The regulators in the oil industries must live up to expectations. They must ensure that oil companies carry out their operations in line with universal best services.”
Buhari further said government was laying a foundation for change to ensure the rule of law and safety of the people. According to him, “The methodology for the clean-up will ensure job creation for young people. The agro-allied industries required for processing of agricultural produce will also be put in place.” He also called on international oil companies doing business in the country to ensure they comply with international best practices. The President said approval had been given for the constitution of all the institutions needed to drive the implementation process, adding that stakeholders should work in synergy to ensure success of the exercise.