Peter Obi Reacts to Seizure of Nigerian-Owned Supertanker by US Authorities

• Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has described the reported seizure of a Nigerian-owned supertanker by United States authorities as “deeply troubling,” warning that crude oil theft continues to damage Nigeria’s economy, reputation, and future.

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has expressed concern over reports that a Nigerian-owned supertanker was seized by United States authorities over allegations of crude oil theft and related illicit activities.

In a statement, Obi said that although “the full facts are still emerging,” the incident is “deeply troubling” and reflects a much broader crisis that has continued to undermine Nigeria’s national economy, global image, and the future of its young population.

He recalled that over the years, he has consistently warned that Nigeria loses billions of dollars annually to crude oil theft, describing it as a criminal enterprise enabled by weak institutions, poor accountability, and an entrenched culture of impunity.

“When a nation’s most valuable resources are stolen in broad daylight, whether at home or on the high seas, its people inevitably suffer,” Obi said, noting that the consequences include deteriorating schools, underfunded hospitals, worsening insecurity, and rising poverty.

Obi stressed that the seriousness of the incident must be fully appreciated, calling for a thorough investigation to uncover the root of the matter. He added that the development should serve as a wake-up call for the country.

“I have consistently mentioned that ordinary Nigerians cannot steal crude oil,” he said, arguing that such large-scale theft points to the involvement of powerful networks. According to him, “no responsible nation can afford to look away while its wealth is siphoned off by a network of powerful individuals.”

He called on the government to strengthen maritime security, reform regulatory agencies, digitise and transparently track every barrel of oil produced in the country, and dismantle criminal cartels that have operated with impunity for decades.

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Obi also emphasised the need to rebuild Nigeria’s global image, saying the country must demonstrate seriousness about the rule of law, honest governance, and responsible management of national assets. He warned that sustained reports of corruption, theft, and mismanagement discourage investment.

The former Anambra State governor urged relevant Nigerian authorities to collaborate with international partners to establish the facts of the case and ensure that anyone found complicit is brought to justice “without fear or favour.”

Concluding, Obi said Nigeria has all it needs to become a prosperous and respected nation but lacks “competent and compassionate leadership” that prioritises the welfare of citizens, adding that “it is time for that to change.”