NIGERIA: Peter Obi Demands Probe Into US Seizure Of Nigerian-Linked Supertanker Over Oil Theft Allegations

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has described the reported seizure of a Nigerian-linked supertanker by United States authorities as a troubling indictment of Nigeria’s persistent crude oil theft crisis, calling for an immediate and thorough investigation to root out complicit networks.

In a statement posted on his X account, Obi drew attention to emerging reports that the US Coast Guard, in collaboration with the US Navy, intercepted the 20-year-old Very Large Crude Carrier named Skipper over allegations of crude oil theft, piracy, and other transnational crimes.

The vessel, with IMO number 9304667, is reportedly managed by Lagos-based Thomarose Global Ventures Ltd., though registered under Triton Navigation Corp. in the Marshall Islands, and was flying an unauthorised Guyanese flag at the time of seizure.

Obi, who has long highlighted the economic devastation caused by oil theft, reiterated that Nigeria loses billions of dollars annually to this criminal enterprise, fueled by weak institutions, lack of accountability, and impunity.

He stressed that the theft of such magnitude cannot be perpetrated by ordinary citizens alone, pointing instead to powerful cartels operating with little consequence.

This international embarrassment, Obi argued, exacerbates domestic woes, including deteriorating schools, underfunded hospitals, worsening insecurity, and deepening poverty.

He urged authorities to treat the incident as a wake-up call, advocating stronger maritime security, regulatory reforms, full digital tracking of oil production, and the dismantling of entrenched criminal networks.

Beyond enforcement, Obi emphasised rebuilding Nigeria’s tarnished global reputation through demonstrated commitment to the rule of law and transparent resource management, warning that ongoing scandals deter foreign investment.

He called on Nigerian agencies to collaborate with international partners to uncover the facts and ensure justice for any found guilty, regardless of status.

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has distanced itself from the vessel, stating it is neither Nigerian-flagged nor registered with the agency, though it last entered Nigerian waters in 2024. NIMASA pledged cooperation in ongoing investigations.

The seizure, announced by US officials amid broader efforts against illicit maritime activities, underscores Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with oil theft, with recent reports indicating losses of billions in revenue from stolen crude.

As details continue to emerge, Obi’s intervention amplifies calls for decisive action to safeguard the nation’s vital resource.