Presidential Initiative Rejects Blackmail Attempt by Former CNG Conversion Partner, Threatens Legal Action 

By Joycelyn Ellakeche Adah

The Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI) has come out strongly against what it calls a deliberate smear campaign and an attempt at electronic blackmail orchestrated by a suspended participant, Mr. Charles Goriola Yakub.

Yakub is operating under the names Independent Conversion Sector (ICS) and C & L Smart Energy Limited, located in Lokogoma, Abuja.

PCNGI management stated that Mr. Yakub’s company had been an approved participant in the CNG Conversion Incentive Programme until its suspension in December 2024 due to serious allegations of misconduct.

According to investigations, C & L Smart Energy engaged in unethical practices by charging unsuspecting commercial operators between ₦200,000 and ₦1.2 million for CNG conversion kits.

These kits were intended to be provided and installed free of charge under the government’s initiative.

According to PCNGI, these findings were backed by extensive documentation and video evidence, with several victims also reporting vehicle damage as a result of substandard installation by the company.

In response, PCNGI referred the case to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and has since intensified its internal compliance measures to ensure the integrity of the programme is maintained.

“This initiative is not a contract-awarding body,” said Kenechukwu Chukwu, Technical Assistant for Stakeholder Management and Public Engagement.

“Our mandate is to promote and enable the clean energy transition—not to enrich individuals through fraudulent means. We will not bow to blackmail or intimidation by any disgruntled party.”

The agency further warned that legal action would be taken regarding the ongoing cyberbullying and defamatory statements propagated by the subject.

PCNGI reaffirmed its commitment to delivering clean, affordable, and reliable transportation powered by CNG and electric vehicles across Nigeria in line with its national mandate.

“We remain focused on our mission. The public can rest assured that we will not be distracted from delivering on our promise to Nigerians,” Chukwu said.