Governor Alex Otti on Tuesday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling crude oil theft and related criminal activities in Abia State, assuring the Joint Task Force (JTF), South-South, Operation Delta Safe, of full cooperation.

Otti gave the assurance while receiving a delegation of the JTF led by its new Commander, Olugbenga Oladipo, at his office in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

The governor stressed the importance of inter-agency security collaboration to safeguard oil infrastructure, protect residents, and create a secure environment capable of attracting investors.

“We have no doubt that we will work together to rid this place of crime and criminality. I want to assure you that we will take up the offer of support from you.

“We need to guarantee that our people can come home, do their business and sleep with their two eyes closed, irrespective of what it takes,” Otti said.

He commended the JTF commander for the progress recorded since assuming office in November, noting that understanding the operational dynamics of oil theft is key to dismantling criminal networks.

“Once you understand how they operate, stopping them in their tracks becomes easier,” he added.

Otti recalled that at the inception of his administration, some local government areas were inaccessible due to banditry but credited sustained security operations for restoring order. He disclosed that the state convenes monthly Security Council meetings and has strengthened its security framework through its Homeland Security outfit.

The governor urged the JTF to establish a dedicated operational base in Ukwa West LGA, Abia’s oil-producing hub, offering to provide accommodation and logistics support.

“So what we’ll probably be asking for is for you to have a base here while you maintain your headquarters in Yenagoa. I will provide accommodation and everything required, particularly in Ukwa West, where we have oil in the state,” he said.

Earlier, Oladipo explained that his visit was to formally introduce himself and deepen collaboration with the Abia State Government. He noted that Operation Delta Safe covers Niger Delta states and parts of the South-East with oil infrastructure, with a mandate to protect oil and gas facilities, curb crude oil theft and bunkering, safeguard lives and property, and support increased production as directed by President Bola Tinubu.

The commander disclosed that although pipeline vandalism has reduced due to protection contracts, criminal elements have shifted focus to wellheads, deploying tactics such as drone jammers and chemical adulteration of crude oil to produce diesel and benzene.

He assured the governor that the JTF maintains a 24-hour Quick Response Squad ready for deployment across its operational areas.

“We are ready to deploy 24 hours to any state that requires our assistance. We are here for you,” he said.

In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, MacDonald Ubah, described the new commander as a resourceful officer and expressed confidence that his leadership would further curb oil bunkering and related crimes in the state.