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Segun Adeyemi

<h2>A coalition of over 500 anti-corruption lawyers stormed the office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) on Wednesday, intensifying pressure on the federal government to investigate Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), over alleged corruption and mismanagement of refinery projects.</h2>

The protesters, under the banner of the Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law, submitted a petition demanding a full-scale investigation into what they described as "opaque and questionable transactions" during Kyari's tenure.

The protest marked the second day of demonstrations outside the Ministry of Justice in Abuja.

According to the petition co-signed by Barristers Emmanuel Agada and Jonathan Uchendu, billions of dollars allocated for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries have allegedly vanished without transparent accounting.

<h2>Alleged $2bn Port Harcourt Refinery Fraud</h2>

The Port Harcourt refinery is Nigeria's oldest, built in 1965, nine years after crude was first found under the marshy soil and creeks of the delta, where the Niger river meanders to the Gulf of Guinea. [Getty Images]

They specifically cited <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/protesters-demand-probe-ex-nnpcl-boss-kyari-2025042211320954376">a controversial deal involving Matrix Energy Limited,</a> which allegedly invested $400 million in the Port Harcourt Refinery despite a separate, government-approved $1.5 billion refurbishment plan.

“The NNPCL is now reportedly owing Matrix Energy more than $2 billion,” the lawyers wrote, claiming the debt is being serviced through crude oil allocations not backed by payment.

They urged the AGF to launch a fact-finding investigation, review all agreements signed under Kyari, and push for a commission of inquiry.

The lawyers specifically cited a controversial deal involving Matrix Energy Limited, which allegedly invested $400 million in the Port Harcourt Refinery despite a separate, government-approved $1.5 billion refurbishment plan.

“Getting to the root of this matter will help the Federal Government account for how public resources were squandered,” the petition stated.

Winifred Adekunle, a deputy director at the AGF’s office, received the petition and assured the group it would be forwarded to the Minister of Justice with urgency.

PHOTOS: Over 500 lawyers demand probe of Kyari over alleged corruption in NNPCL

<h2>A massive protest erupted in Abuja on Tuesday as over 5,000 Nigerians, under the banner of Concerned Citizens Against Corruption, took to the streets, demanding the prosecution of Mele Kyari, the former CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).</h2>

The protesters marched to the office of the Attorney General of the Federation, calling for an <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/probe-15bn-refinery-scandal-mele-kyari-2025041714471607990">immediate investigation into NNPCL’s operations during Kyari’s five-year tenure. </a>

Led by activist Kabir Matazu, the group accused Kyari of presiding over a culture of opacity and financial mismanagement that contributed to the nation’s economic woes.

"It is on record that the sack of the erstwhile corrupt leadership of the NNPCL drew applause from Nigerians.

Thousands of protesters storm Abuja, demand probe of ex-NNPCL boss Mele Kyari. [Facebook]

"But Nigerians are disenchanted that Mr. President has only stopped at removing the former leadership without taking steps to investigate how Kyari and his cabal bled this country dry," said Matazu

The protesters zeroed in on the controversial rehabilitation of government-owned refineries, pointing to billions of dollars allegedly spent without transparency.

<h2>Nigerians Demand Answers on $2B Deal With Matrix Energy</h2>

They also raised questions about a murky debt arrangement with Matrix Energy Limited, which is reportedly <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project-2024102811050723674">owed over $2 billion by NNPCL. </a>

"What we are talking about here is a daily allocation of 80,000 barrels of crude oil to a non-state actor.

"This deal was signed during Kyari’s administration, and it is being used to service a debt that Nigerians know nothing about," Matazu stated

The group demanded that the Attorney General initiate a judicial review and push for a commission of inquiry into NNPCL’s refinery contracts and financial dealings under Kyari.

They stressed that an investigation is necessary not just for the recovery of funds, but to ensure current and future officials are held accountable.

“If Nigeria must move forward, we must understand what went wrong, who is responsible, and how to prevent it from happening again,” Matazu said.

The protesters vowed to sustain their movement until the government takes decisive action.

The protesters vowed to sustain their movement until the government takes decisive action.

PHOTOS: 5,000 protesters storm Abuja, demand probe of ex-NNPCL boss Mele Kyari

<h2>A coalition of civil society organisations under the National Transparency Network is demanding a full-scale investigation into the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) under its former Group CEO, Mele Kyari, particularly regarding the $1.5 billion Port Harcourt refinery rehabilitation project, which has yet to deliver refined products.</h2>

At a press conference in Abuja, National Coordinator Dr. Fabian Opialu described the spending as a “national capture of our resources,” alleging that the project, <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project/pphe9nl">initially meant to refurbish two refineries, </a>was abandoned without explanation, despite the staggering funds expended.

“The said refinery turned out to be non-functional, failing to meet even the most basic industrial standards,” Opialu stated, calling the situation “a national emergency that demands immediate and thorough redress.”

The group also raised red flags over a $400 million investment by Matrix Oil in the same refinery project, questioning the lack of transparency and public benefit.

Citing a broader pattern of mismanagement, the CSOs demanded a forensic audit of all NNPCL financial dealings over the past five years, and a full investigation into the alleged diversion of 89 million barrels of crude oil to non-state actors.

“This treacherous act defies logic and prudence,” the group said in a statement.

“Who are those responsible? Why no arrests? Nigerians will not tolerate another phase of misappropriation and concealment.”

While commending<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/breaking-tinubu-sacks-mele-kyari-as-nnpc-chief-see-replacement-2025040206133021486"> President Tinubu’s reform agenda</a>, the CSOs stressed that “reform without accountability is merely cosmetic,” urging the EFCC, National Assembly, and the Presidency to take immediate action.

Mele Kyari, former chief executive officer of NNPC Co. Ltd. [Getty Images]

The group also raised red flags over a $400 million investment by Matrix Oil in the same refinery project, questioning the lack of transparency and public benefit.

CSOs demand probe into $1.5bn refinery scandal under Mele Kyari

News Agency Of Nigeria

The new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd. (NNPCL), Mr Bayo Ojulari, has officially taken over the reins of the company from his predecessor, Mele Kyari.

Following the appointment of the new GCEO and Board of Directors, NNPC Ltd. also announced the appointment of a new eight-member Senior Management Team.

In a brief handover ceremony held at the NNPC Towers on Friday, the GCEO commended Kyari for his contributions to the growth of the NNPC Ltd. and his sterling service to the nation.

Ojulari, in a statement by the NNPC Ltd. spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, said his management objective was to consolidate his predecessor's successes and take the company to the next level.

He said he would rely on the cooperation of the company's management and staff, as well as the counsel of his predecessor, to achieve the set targets.

The new Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bayo Ojulari (right) officially takes over from his predecessor, Mr Mele Kyari (left).

“I will be counting on your support. I will need it. I will be coming around to seek your counsel,” Ojulari said.

Earlier in his remarks, Kyari congratulated Ojulari and thanked the company's management and staff for their support while in office.

He pledged to do everything he could to help the new management succeed, stressing that he was only a call away.

In a similar development, following the appointment of the new GCEO and Board of Directors, NNPC Ltd. also announced the appointment of a new eight-member Senior Management Team.

Soneye said the team, which the GCEO would head, has Rowland Ewubare as the Group Chief Operating Officer, Adedapo Segun as the Group Chief Financial Officer, and Olalekan Ogunleye as Executive Vice President of Gas, Power and New Energy.

Other team members are Udy Ntia, executive Vice President Upstream; Mumuni Dangazau, executive Vice President Downstream; Sophia Mbakwe, executive Vice President Business Services; and Adesua Dozie, Company Secretary and Chief Legal Officer.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that all appointments are with immediate effect.

Ojulari said his management objective was to consolidate his predecessor's successes and take the company to the next level.

NNPCL unveils new management team as Ojulari takes over from Mele Kyari

Nurudeen Shotayo

<h2 style="text-align: start">President Bola Tinubu has received massive applause for his decision to remove Malam Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.</h2>

Tinubu disbanded the NNPCL board on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, and reconstituted it with appointments into various key positions. He approved the removal of Chief Pius Akinyelure as the chairman and Kyari as the GCEO, among others.

The <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/breaking-tinubu-sacks-mele-kyari-as-nnpc-chief-see-replacement-2025040206133021486">President replaced Kayari with Bashir Bayo Ojulari</a> as Group CEO, and Ahmadu Kida replaced Akinyelure as non-executive chairman. Adedapo Segun, who replaced Umaru Ajiya as chief financial officer last November, has been appointed to the new board.

The restructuring aligns with the government’s vision of revitalising the oil sector and increasing Nigeria’s crude oil production and refining capacity.

ALSO READ: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/meet-bashir-ojulari-the-new-ceo-of-nnpcl-2025040213010879715">Meet Bashir Ojulari: The new CEO of NNPCL</a>

Reacting to the development, an energy advocacy group, the Energy Reforms Advocates (ERA), lauded Tinubu's decision, describing it as a courageous step toward reforming Nigeria’s oil sector and tackling entrenched corruption.

This is contained in a statement by Abdulkadri Isah, president of ERA, on Wednesday.

Isah said Kyari’s removal would allow a full investigation into alleged fraudulent refinery projects under former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

“The dismissal of Mele Kyari signals a new dawn in our nation’s commitment to eradicating corruption in the oil and gas sector. We commend President Tinubu for demonstrating the political will to confront these challenges head-on,” he stated.

<h3 style="text-align: start">Group demands probe of fake refinery projects</h3>

ERA also urged the <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/search-results?keywords=Kyari">newly appointed leadership of the NNPCL</a> to prioritise an audit of past projects and ensure accountability in the sector.

“The probe into fake refinery projects must be swift and thorough. Nigerians deserve to know how billions of dollars were allocated to non-existent or uncompleted projects while the country continued to rely on fuel imports,” he stated.

It called on relevant anti-corruption agencies to support the process, warning that failure to expose past mismanagement would hinder any meaningful reform.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/kyari-ordered-to-resign-as-nnpcl-boss-within-72-hours-2024111911191219703">READ ALSO:&nbsp;Kyari gets 72 hours ultimatum to resign as NNPCL boss</a>

“This investigation should not end with a change in leadership. There must be consequences for those who mismanaged funds and deceived Nigerians. The government must set a precedent that corruption will no longer be tolerated,” Isah added.

The group also expressed optimism that under fresh leadership, the NNPC could regain public trust and reposition itself as a driver of economic growth.

“With competent leadership, the NNPC can finally fulfill its mandate. We expect reforms that will boost local refining capacity, attract investment, and ultimately reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products,” the statement read.

Tinubu applauded for sacking Mele Kyari, asked to probe fake refinery projects

Tinubu relieved Kyari of his duty as NNPCL GCEO on Wednesday and appointed Ojulari as his successor. The move has been largely received with praise and applause.

<h2>In a major shakeup at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Engineer Bashir Ojulari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), replacing Mele Kyari.</h2>

Presidential Adviser&nbsp;Bayo Onanuga announced the decision, which comes under Section 59, Subsection 2 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, and aims to reform the board to improve efficiency and attract investors.

Alongside Kyari, the NNPC Chairman, Pius Akinyelure, and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/breaking-tinubu-sacks-mele-kyari-as-nnpc-chief-see-replacement-2025040206133021486">other board members appointed in November 2023 were also removed.</a>

Tinubu has now constituted a new 11-member board, with Ahmadu Kida serving as the non-Executive Chairman.

<h2>Profile of NNPCL’s Newly Appointed CEO</h2>

Ojulari, a seasoned engineer from Kwara State, brings extensive industry experience to his new role.

Before his appointment, he was the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company.

His leadership at Renaissance was pivotal in the $2.4 billion acquisition of Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC).

An alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Ojulari holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

He began his career as Nigeria’s first process engineer at Elf Aquitaine before joining Shell Petroleum Development Company in 1991.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/kyari-ordered-to-resign-as-nnpcl-boss-within-72-hours-2024111911191219703">READ ALSO:&nbsp;Kyari gets 72 hours ultimatum to resign as NNPCL boss</a>

Over three decades, he held key positions in Europe, the Middle East, and Nigeria, including Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).

Beyond his corporate experience, Ojulari has been an active figure in professional bodies, serving as chairman and trustee of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE Nigeria) and a fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

His appointment signals a new era for NNPC as the administration pushes for increased local content, economic growth, and gas commercialisation.

His appointment signals a new era for NNPC as the administration pushes for increased local content, economic growth, and gas commercialisation.

Meet Bashir Ojulari: The new CEO of NNPCL

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/search-results?keywords=Tinubu%20sacks">President Bola Tinubu</a> has approved the removal of Chief Pius Akinyelure, the chairman of the board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd. and <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/search-results?keywords=Kyari">Malam Mele Kyari</a>, the group chief executive officer.

Kyari was replaced by Mr Bashir Ojulari as Group CEO and Akinyelure was replaced by Mr Ahmadu Kida as non-executive chairman, Mr Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement on Wednesday.

Tinubu also removed all other board members appointed with Akinyelure and Kyari in November 2023.

Mr Adedapo Segun, who replaced Umaru Ajiya as the chief financial officer last November, has been appointed to the new board.

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/pressure-mounts-on-tinubu-as-stakeholders-demand-mele-kyaris-retention-at-nnpc-2025021107111927510">Pressure mounts on Tinubu as stakeholders demand Mele Kyari’s retention at NNPC</a>

Six board members, non-executive directors, representing the country’s geopolitical zones are: Bello Rabiu, North West; Yusuf Usman, North East, and Babs Omotowa, a former managing director of the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas (NLNG), who represents North Central.

Tinubu also appointed Mr Austin Avuru as a non-executive director from the South-South, David Ige as a non-executive director from the South West, and Henry Obih as a non-executive director from the South East.

Mrs Lydia Jafiya, permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, will represent the ministry on the new board, while Aminu Ahmed will represent the Ministry of Petroleum Resources.

The President invoked the powers granted under Section 59, subsection 2 of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021, adding that all the appointments were with immediate effect.

He said that the board’s restructuring was crucial for enhancing operational efficiency, and restoring investor confidence.

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/igp-egbetokun-cardoso-kyari-tinubu-at-risk-of-arrest-2025020315234202684">FULL LIST: IGP Egbetokun, Cardoso, Kyari among top Tinubu officials at risk of arrest</a>

Tinubu added that it would also boost local content, drive economic growth, and advance gas commercialisation and diversification.

The President handed out an immediate action plan to the new board; to conduct a strategic portfolio review of NNPC-operated and Joint Venture Assets.

He said this would ensure alignment with value maximisation objectives.

Since 2023, the Tinubu administration has implemented oil sector reforms to attract investment. Last year, NNPC reported 17 billion dollars in new investments within the sector.

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/kyari-ordered-to-resign-as-nnpcl-boss-within-72-hours-2024111911191219703">Kyari gets 72 hours ultimatum to resign as NNPCL boss</a>

“The administration now envisions increasing the investment to 30 billion dollars by 2027 and 60 billion dollars by 2030.

‘The Tinubu administration targets raising oil production to two million barrels daily by 2027 and three million daily by 2030.

“Concurrently, the government wants gas production jacked to 8 billion cubic feet daily by 2027 and 10 billion cubic feet by 2030.”

Tinubu charged the new board to elevate NNPC’s share of crude oil refining output to 200,000 barrels by 2027 and reach 500,000 by 2030.

The new board chairman, Kida, from Borno, is an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he received a degree in civil engineering in 1984.

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project-2024102811050723674">Kyari, NNPCL under fire over $2bn Port Harcourt Refinery project</a>

He also obtained a postgraduate diploma in petroleum engineering from the Institut Francaise du Petrol (IFP) in Paris

He started his career in the oil industry at Elf Petroleum Nigeria and later joined Total Exploration and Production as a trainee engineer in 1985.

Kida became Total Nigeria’s Deputy Managing Director of Deep Water Services in 2015. Last year, he became an Independent Non-Executive Director at Pan Ocean-Newcross Group.

Apart from his oil industry career, Kida is a former basketballer and the president of the Nigerian Basketball Federation(NBBF) board.

Ojulari, the new NNPC Ltd. Group CEO, hails from Kwara.

Until his new appointment, he was Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company.

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/mele-kyari-told-to-resign-over-dollar68bn-nnpc-debt-scandal-2024092617120968742">APC youths demand Mele Kyari’s resignation over $6.8bn NNPC debt scandal</a>

Renaissance Africa Energy Company recently led a consortium of indigenous energy firms in the landmark acquisition of the entire equity holding in the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC), worth 2.4 billion dollars.

Like Kida, Ojulari is also an alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.

He graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

He worked for Elf Aquitaine as the first Nigerian process engineer to begin a stellar career in the oil sector.

From Elf, he joined Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Ltd in 1991 as an associate production technologist.

Apart from working in Nigeria, he worked in Europe and the Middle East in different capacities as a petroleum process and production engineer, strategic planner, field developer, and asset manager.

In 2015, he became the managing director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCO).

Tinubu thanked the old board members for their dedicated service to NNPC Ltd.

He commended them for their efforts in rehabilitating the old Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, and wished them well in their future endeavours.

READ ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/dollar6bn-debt-debate-over-calls-for-kyaris-dismissal-heightens-2024092617252139786">Fuel scarcity, $6bn debt: Debate over calls for Kyari's dismissal heightens</a>

Tinubu also removed all other board members appointed with Akinyelure and Kyari in November 2023.

BREAKING! Tinubu sacks Mele Kyari as NNPC chief; see replacement

<h2>President Bola Tinubu is facing mounting pressure from civil society groups and industry stakeholders to retain Mele Kyari as the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)'s group chief executive officer (GCEO).</h2>

At a press conference in Abuja on Monday, February 10, Comrade Friday Maduka, Chairman of the Forum of Civil Society Organisations of Nigeria, strongly warned against Kyari’s removal, stressing that such a move could destabilise the oil sector.

"Mele Kyari's leadership at NNPC has been a beacon of hope and transformation in the oil sector," Maduka stated. "His vision, expertise, and dedication have yielded unprecedented results, including the renewed functioning of refineries, stabilisation of oil prices, and a greater focus on sustainable economic development."

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/fuel-retail-price-drops-nationwide-2025021017203426437">READ ALSO: Nigerians as fuel retail price drops nationwide</a>

He highlighted Kyari’s role in transitioning NNPC into a limited liability corporation, which has improved transparency and accountability.

Maduka argued that ongoing efforts to remove Kyari were motivated by "envy and jealousy," warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s economic stability.

"These underhand moves, campaigns, and shibboleths are not only a threat to the stability of the oil sector but also to the overall economic development of Nigeria," he said.

Maduka also referenced the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), asserting that Kyari’s tenure should extend beyond 2026 as stipulated by law.

<a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project-2024102811050723674">READ ALSO: Kyari, NNPCL under fire over $2bn Port Harcourt Refinery project</a>

"It is expected that his tenure should terminate in 2027 in compliance with Section 59 (2) of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021," he explained.

He further commended Kyari’s efforts in lowering fuel prices and promoting gas as an alternative energy source, calling for unity in sustaining NNPC’s progress.

"We strongly believe that he should be allowed to consummate his outstanding work," Maduka concluded.

L-R: Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu and Mele Kyari, the Group Chief executive officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum company limited. [Getty Images]

Stakeholders also referenced the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), asserting that Kyari’s tenure should extend beyond 2026 as stipulated by law.

Pressure mounts on Tinubu as stakeholders demand Mele Kyari’s retention at NNPC

<h2>The Nigerian Senate has issued a stern warning to high-ranking government officials, including Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Yemi Cardoso, and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Mele Kyari, over their continued failure to honour invitations for audit-related inquiries.</h2>

The Senate’s Public Accounts Committee (SPAC), chaired by Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, declared on Tuesday, February 4, that it would issue arrest warrants if the officials continued to ignore its summons.

The committee is investigating several audit reports from the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation (AuGF) and has repeatedly invited the officials to defend queries against them.

Also at risk of arrest are the Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji, and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi.

Wadada revealed that the FIRS CEO has ignored eight invitations, while NNPCL has never appeared before the committee.

“This is unacceptable. Nobody in Nigeria is above the law. If President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can appear before the National Assembly to present the budget, I wonder how an appointee can think he is too busy to honour an invitation,” Wadada stated.

Wadada emphasised that repeated <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/egbetokuns-tenure-as-igp-remains-valid-under-amended-police-act-fagbemi-2025013109263110513">refusals to cooperate with the legislative process</a> are an affront to the National Assembly and an insult to President Tinubu’s administration.

<h2>Demand for arrest of Tinubu's top officials</h2>

He declared that officials who fail to appear will face arrest and risk losing their positions.

“From today, whoever refuses to appear before this committee will have a warrant of arrest issued against them. We will also call on the President to disengage any official who does not share in his dream of making Nigeria a better place,” Wadada warned.

The committee is particularly displeased with <a target="_blank" class="editor-link" href="https://www.pulse.ng/articles/news/local/firs-naira1236-trillion-revenue-sparks-fresh-wave-of-reactions-2024111910384557531">the FIRS chairman’s continued defiance. </a>

“We have sent more than eight invitations to the FIRS chairman, yet he has refused to appear or even acknowledge our communications. If he truly believes in the Renewed Hope Agenda, why is he avoiding scrutiny?” Wadada questioned.

Mele Kyari, chief executive officer of NNPC Co. Ltd. [Getty Images]

Regarding NNPCL, Wadada noted that the company has failed to provide satisfactory responses to queries raised by the Senate.

“NNPCL’s management has never appeared before this committee. The few responses we have received from them are vague and insufficient. The next time they ignore an invitation, we will issue a warrant of arrest,” he declared.

Similarly, the NCS is under scrutiny for billions of naira in unaccounted funds flagged in the Auditor-General’s report.

“We have tried repeatedly to engage the NCS, but they remain unresponsive. If this continues, we will have no choice but to take legal action,” Wadada warned.

The committee’s ultimatum sets the stage for a potential showdown between the legislature and the top officials who continue to evade accountability.

L-R: Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Mele Kyari, and Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Yemi Cardoso. [Facebook]

The committee’s ultimatum sets the stage for a potential showdown between the legislature and the top officials who continue to evade accountability.

FULL LIST: IGP Egbetokun, Cardoso, Kyari among top Tinubu officials at risk of arrest

Civil society groups, under the Forum of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria, have lauded the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery and recent reforms in the oil sector.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Chairman Comrade Friday Maduka described these developments as “landmark achievements.”

Maduka highlighted the refinery’s resumption of operations as a critical step in reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products.

He credited the success to the leadership of Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd).

“This success underscores the commitment of the NNPC Ltd under Mele Kyari to driving growth and development in the oil and gas sector,” Maduka said.

The Forum also celebrated the reduction in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), attributing it to the collaborative efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kyari.

According to Maduka, “This reduction reflects a sincere effort to ensure the oil sector delivers tangible benefits to the Nigerian people.”

Acknowledging the broader reforms in the oil sector, the Forum noted that these measures, though initially challenging, are already yielding results.

Maduka urged Nigerians to remain patient and supportive as the industry transforms.

Praising Kyari’s leadership qualities, Maduka highlighted his commitment to transparency and accountability as pivotal in achieving these milestones.

“Mele Kyari’s ability to inspire trust and foster innovation has raised the bar in the oil and gas sector,” he stated.

The Forum urged Nigerians to rally behind President Tinubu and Kyari to ensure the continued success of these reforms, envisioning a “more prosperous Nigeria” through sustained efforts.

Acknowledging the broader reforms in the oil sector, the Forum noted that these measures, though initially challenging, are already yielding results.

Tinubu, Kyari lauded for 'sincere effort' in restoring PH Refinery

The Arewa Youths Initiative for Energy Reforms (AYIFER) has called on Mallam Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), urging him to ensure the timely and quality completion of the Kaduna refinery.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Alhaji Bashir Al'Amin, and General Secretary, Engr. Gideon Yakubu, AYIFER, expressed the refinery's importance to northern Nigeria’s economy.

"The hopes of the entire northerners lie in the completion and commissioning of the Kaduna refinery for crude production," the group stated.

The youth body stressed that the refinery must meet international standards akin to the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, dismissing the criticisms surrounding the Port Harcourt refinery.

"We have not visited the Port Harcourt refinery, but reports from host communities and other Nigerians are discouraging. It has been labelled as a mere blending plant, which is unacceptable," they noted.

While acknowledging Kyari's expertise as a seasoned geologist, AYIFER urged him to resist pressures that could tarnish his reputation.

"Mallam Mele Kyari is a young man blessed by God, and he must avoid being misled by sycophants. If he fails, we fail too," the statement added.

Highlighting the economic decline in the north, AYIFER lamented the collapse of industries like groundnut pyramids and textiles.

"Our hopes are tied to this legacy refinery. We trust Almighty Allah will use Kyari to deliver it well and on time," they declared.

The youth body stressed that the refinery must meet international standards akin to the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, dismissing the criticisms surrounding the Port Harcourt refinery.

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