Army Debunks Claims of Pipeline Vandalism Alarm During COAS Visit to Port Harcourt
The Nigerian Army has dismissed as misleading and malicious a media report alleging that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, raised alarm over rising cases of pipeline vandalism during his recent operational visit to 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks.
In a statement issued by Army Headquarters on Saturday, the Army described the report, published by Sahara Reporters under the headline “Nigerian Army Chief Raises Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta,” as a gross misrepresentation of facts and a futile attempt at blackmail.
The Army categorically stated that the COAS did not, at any time, express concern or raise alarm over alleged increases in pipeline vandalism.
Clarifying the facts, the Army said that while addressing troops of 6 Division on Friday, 9 January 2025, the COAS emphasised the strategic importance of their mandate in protecting critical national infrastructure, noting that effective execution of this responsibility would have a positive impact on the nation’s economy.
He charged officers and soldiers to remain disciplined, committed and dedicated to their duties, while assuring them that their welfare remained a top priority under his Command Philosophy.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also disclosed that some challenges raised by commanders during the visit were addressed immediately, particularly in the area of accommodation.
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According to him, approval had been granted for the construction of additional accommodation, renovation of existing quarters and completion of ongoing projects to ease housing challenges.
He further assured troops that issues relating to quality education for their children were being looked into, urging them in return to carry out their duties conscientiously.
While responding to questions from journalists, the COAS explained that his visit to 6 Division formed part of his routine operational tours across Army formations to assess combat readiness, interact with personnel and identify challenges requiring prompt intervention.
He reiterated his commitment to addressing outstanding issues raised during the visit, noting that some would be resolved immediately, while others would be tackled upon return to Abuja.
The Army further stressed that security parameters on ground in the Niger Delta indicate commendable efforts by security agencies in curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism, resulting in sustained exploration activities in the oil and gas sector to the benefit of the national economy.
Army Headquarters cautioned media organisations against publishing unverified and distorted narratives, urging them to always confirm facts before placing reports in the public domain.
Members of the public were also called upon to disregard what the Army described as subtle but futile attempts to downplay security efforts yielding positive results across the region.
The statement additionally appealed to residents of the Niger Delta to continue to support security agencies by providing credible intelligence on the activities of economic saboteurs for prompt response and sustained security.