PIPELINE VANDALISM AND SABOTAGE IN NIGERIA: ASSESSING THE ADEQUACY OF CRIMINAL AND REGULATORY SANCTIONS UNDER THE PIA 2021 AND OTHER LAWS

Abstract

Pipeline vandalism and sabotage remain the single biggest threat to Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure, costing the nation an estimated 400,000 bpd in lost production and billions in revenue annually. Despite this, convictions for pipeline offences remain negligible. This paper examines the adequacy of the legal and regulatory framework for addressing pipeline vandalism in Nigeria. It analyses the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021, the Oil Pipelines Act 1956, the Criminal Code Act, the Terrorism Prevention Act 2022, and the NOSDRA Act 2006. The paper argues that while the PIA 2021 introduced new offences and stiffer penalties under ss 216-219, the regime remains fragmented, enforcement is weak, and the law fails to address root causes such as community alienation and inadequate surveillance technology. Using a doctrinal methodology, the paper undertakes a comparative review of enforcement mechanisms in the US and Canada. It concludes that Nigeria’s approach is overly punitive without being preventive. The paper recommends statutory amendments to create a dedicated Pipeline Protection Agency, mandatory integrity management, restorative justice provisions for host communities, and the use of technology-driven evidence in prosecution.