By Valentine Amanze
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has dispelled the rumour of pipeline vandalism in Aboru area of Lagos State.
The NSCDC gave the verdict through the Media Assistant to the Commandant General, Ekunola Gbenga.
He said: “We are aware of incorrect social media rumours of damage being caused by vandalism on NNPC Pipeline at Aboru/ Cacatin Canal on July 2, 2020.
“There was no vandalism on NNPC Pipeline at Aboru/ Cacatin Canal on the said day.”
According to him, the Corps visited the place, where the alleged facility was vandalized and only found water gushing out of the rusted pipe because the NNPC was pumping water for over a week while carrying out welding of previously pegged points on the pipeline.
“This point was to be welded a few days ago but due to overflow of the canal it was not possible then.
“Though, we have educated those living around the pipeline about this exercise, yet that didn’t stop rumours quickly circulating on social media platforms.
“The Corps wishes to debunk the rumour in its entirety as nothing could be further from the truth.”
He however pointed out that
Corps received distress calls from concerned Nigerians whose apprehensions were understandably heightened by disturbing rumours emanating from some social media platforms.
Meanwhile, the Commandant General, Abdullahi Gana Muhammadu, has said that the protection and security of NNPC pipelines and oil assets were part of the constitutional responsibilities of the Corps. He reassured the public that NSCDC would continue to send pipeline vandals out of business.
Gana further warned against rumour-mongering and spreading of fake news, stressing that it poses dangers to efforts of the security agencies in crime prevention and control.
He advised: “Please always verify the source and authenticity of the information before you spread it out to avoid being a courier or victim of spreading fake news.
“The Corps will not relent on its efforts in protecting the lives and property of the citizens. Members of the public are thereby enjoined to remain calm and support the ongoing efforts of the Corps in ridding the country of criminal elements.”
