The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has ordered an investigation into allegations of oil theft leveled against Emmanuel Ogalla, the Chief of Naval Staff, following a report by Peoples Gazette implicating him in a multibillion naira oil bunkering and contract-splitting fraud.
In response, the director of information in the Ministry of Defence, Henshaw Ogubike, emphasized the administration’s commitment to zero tolerance for corruption in the public service.
The statement added, “Though these allegations might be mischievous, the ministry of defence is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and accountability within the Nigerian Armed Forces.
“The allegations levelled against Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla are serious.
“We respect the role of the media in fostering transparency and holding public figures accountable.
“At the same time, we urge responsible journalism that adheres to the principles of fairness, objectivity, and accuracy.
“Accusations of this nature can have far-reaching consequences on the reputation of individuals and institutions, and thus, it is crucial to avoid premature judgments.
“We remain committed to the principles of due process and fairness, ensuring that findings will be based on concrete evidence and legal standards.
“It is our collective responsibility to maintain the trust and confidence of the Nigerian people in the institutions that safeguard our nation’s security.”
The minister urged patience as the investigative process unfolds, affirming the commitment to uphold justice in accordance with the rule of law.
In contrast, the Nigerian navy vehemently denied Ogalla’s involvement in any fraudulent activities.
Adedotun Ayo-Vaughan, navy spokesperson, in a statement on Sunday dismissed the allegations as “unfounded, baseless, and malicious.”
Ayo-Vaughan attributed the allegations to disgruntled elements seeking to undermine the navy’s efforts to combat crude oil theft and illegal activities in the maritime domain.
He clarified that only the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has the authority to award or oversee oil bunkering contracts, emphasizing the navy’s adherence to due process in all its operations.
He said, “It is until these processes are duly concluded that such vessels are released to appropriate prosecuting agencies for further actions
“Indeed, all arrested vessels mentioned in the publication that were involved in crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering are being investigated and none of such vessels has been released as alleged.
“Secondly, the CNS does not award or oversee oil bunkering contracts; the award of such is the sole prerogative of NNPCL.
“Thirdly, all contracts awarded by the navy follow due process in line with the laws of the Federation.”
Ayo-Vaughan reaffirmed the Navy commitment to uphold extant laws and regulations while fulfilling its role in monitoring the Nigerian maritime domain and apprehending vessels contravening the law.
“Accordingly, members of the public are therefore enjoined to discountenance completely the malicious publication.
“It is totally untrue and completely baseless, being a figment of the shallow imagination of the writer, his publishers, and their unpatriotic sponsors.”
Ada Peter
