Allegations Against Chief of Naval Staff Aimed at Undermining Anti-Oil Theft Efforts, Says Deputy Spokesman

• Deputy Spokesman Philip Agbese dismisses petition against Chief of Naval Staff as an attempt to hinder anti-oil theft efforts
• Agbese labels allegations of Naval Chief’s involvement in crude oil theft and fraud as baseless, emphasizing the Navy’s progress

Honourable Philip Agbese, Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, has labelled the recent petition against Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, as a deliberate ploy to divert attention and hinder the ongoing battle against oil theft.

In an address to the media over the weekend, Agbese asserted that the petition is orchestrated by discontented individuals affected by Ogalla’s reforms and strategic cleansing of waterways. Failing to compromise the Chief of Naval Staff, these entities, according to the Representative, are resorting to smear campaigns to tarnish Ogalla’s character and office.

Agbese dismissed the allegations of the Naval Chief’s involvement in the disorganized bunkering of Nigerian crude and multimillion-naira contract-splitting fraud as baseless and laughable. As a lawmaker who initiated a motion for an investigation into crude oil theft and revenue loss last year, Agbese emphasized the significant progress made in addressing these issues.

During the Sectorial Debate, where Service Chiefs elucidated their activities, plans, and programs, Agbese highlighted Ogalla’s exemplary performance in presenting challenges and strategies to the House. He expressed no surprise at the subsequent targeting of the Chief of Naval Staff.

The Deputy Spokesman underscored the integrity, accountability, and transparency of the Nigerian Navy under Ogalla’s leadership, describing the recent accusations as a shameful attempt to discredit a distinguished figure.

Agbese recalled, “Sometime last year, I raised a motion calling for the probe of crude oil theft and revenue loss. The House set up an ad-hoc committee to investigate this impasse. The Navy was questioned, stakeholders were invited, and we brainstormed on how to avoid further carnage. Now that we are making progress, the enemies of the nation are not happy.”

He urged Ogalla and the dedicated officers not to be discouraged by the baseless attack, emphasizing that Nigerians recognize their patriotic efforts. In conclusion, Agbese encouraged them to continue their duties with loyalty to the nation, resisting attempts to revert to the era of bunkering.