The NNPC Limited has distanced itself from a truck intercepted in Ondo State with 2,145 kilograms of suspected cannabis, saying the vehicle does not belong to the company or any of its authorised dealers.
The company also commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for the seizure and its continued efforts against illegal drug trafficking.
NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, disclosed the company’s position in a statement issued on Monday.
Vehicle Not Part of NNPC Fleet, Company Says
Odeh said preliminary checks conducted by the company showed that the truck, with registration number MKA 960 XC, was neither part of NNPC Limited’s official fleet nor associated with any recognised NNPC-authorised dealer.
He explained that the vehicle was also not recorded in the company’s asset database.
According to him, the branding displayed on the truck does not match NNPC Limited’s current corporate identity.
The company said the matter raised concerns over the unauthorised use of its name and symbols in connection with an alleged criminal activity.
NNPC Investigates Use of Old Branding
The company said it was engaging the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to gather additional information about how the vehicle came to display NNPC-related markings.
Odeh said the company takes any misuse of its corporate identity seriously, particularly where such branding may be linked to illegal activities.
“NNPC Ltd. takes any unauthorised use of its corporate identity seriously, particularly where such use may be associated with unlawful activity,” he said.
Company Promises Further Action
NNPC Limited said it would continue working with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security agencies to determine the ownership and operational history of the vehicle.
The company added that it was reviewing its brand protection and asset monitoring systems to prevent similar incidents.
It said appropriate measures, including legal action where necessary, would be taken against anyone found responsible for misusing its corporate identity.
NNPC Advises Public to Verify Vehicle Claims
The energy company urged members of the public and relevant authorities to confirm whether vehicles claiming affiliation with NNPC are genuine through official channels.
Odeh reiterated the company’s support for NDLEA operations aimed at disrupting illegal drug trafficking networks across Nigeria.
NDLEA Cannabis Interception
The development followed the interception of the truck by NDLEA operatives in Ondo State while allegedly transporting 2,145kg of cannabis.
The seizure forms part of ongoing efforts by Nigerian security agencies to combat the production, movement and distribution of illicit drugs.
