The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has come out strongly in defence of its Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mallam Mele Kyari, amid protests calling for his resignation over the hike in fuel prices.
The protesters, led by civil society organizations, stormed the NNPC Ltd. headquarters in Abuja, citing skyrocketing fuel prices, endless fuel queues, and economic hardship in Nigeria.
However, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, spokesman for NNPC Ltd., dismissed the protesters’ demands, stating that they lacked understanding of the sector.
Rather, Kyari ensured Nigerians had access to fuel at N620 per litre for over a year, despite landing costs exceeding N1,100, he said.
“Unfortunately, the protesters lack understanding of the sector. If they were informed, they would have known that the GCEO is not responsible for the fuel price increase.
“In fact, he ensured Nigerians had fuel at N620 per litre for over a year, even when the landing cost was above N1,100. NNPC Ltd. does not import adulterated fuel.
“If anyone has evidence to the contrary, they should bring forward samples of any such fuel imported by NNPC Ltd’s,” Soneye said.
Soneye stressed that the company won’t be distracted by “inconsequential groups” motivated by selfish interests.
“I won’t waste time engaging with individuals motivated by selfish interests.
“We have more pressing projects to accomplish to ensure energy security for our nation rather than focusing on inconsequential groups.
“We are committed to implementing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s roadmap for the sector, and no group will deter or distract us from achieving this goal,” the NNPC Ltd’s spokesman assured.
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