The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), South-West zone, has called on the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), to provide logistic aid in tackling pipeline vandalism.

NSCDC commandants of Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Kwara states made the call while attending a stakeholders' meeting on pipeline protection with IPMAN South-West zone representatives in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.

Oyo NSCDC acting Commandant, Mr Victor Oyelumade, speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said with the right support, vandalism would be stamped out ultimately.

"We will build on our successes in tackling pipeline vandalism, provided we have enough support in our logistics.

"There is no going back; we are ready for their total removal.

"We have enough personnel and even have the opportunity to call for reinforcement from neighbouring states," Oyelumade said.

Reacting to issues of operational conflicts between the Nigeria Police and the NSCDC, the Oyo commandant said though regrettable, the two agencies still work together for a common goal.
"All security agencies are working for the public, services paid for by the Federal Government.

"Conflicts in work schedule do happen sometimes, which cannot be ruled out based on individual differences and temperament issues.

"However, we normally complement each other's activities," Oyelumade said.

He urged the public to always avail the corps with accurate and timely information, saying such aid would always be treated in confidentiality.

The Ondo State NSCDC Commandant, Mr Waheed Popoola, also told NAN that to reduce the activities of vandals, marketers need to always keep the corps abreast of their activities.

"Pipeline protection is one of our major mandates which we don't take for granted.

"To be successful in this fight, all hands must be on deck.

"I will also advise we leverage the full support of traditional rulers and clan heads to sensitise their communities on the importance of pipeline protection," Popoola urged.

In response, South-West Zone IPMAN chairman, Mr Olumide Ogunmade, promised to grant the commandants' request for adequate provision of logistics, while thanking the corps for their support.