The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has defended its Group CEO, Malam Mele Kyari, against allegations of causing the spike in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) pricing.
Following demonstrators’ calls for Kyari’s dismissal, the firm stated that he is not responsible for the hike in fuel costs.
Mr. Olufemi Soneye, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, replied to the protests organized by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) that took place outside the NNPC headquarters in Abuja.
The CSOs demanded Kyari’s resignation, blaming him for issues in fuel distribution and escalating fuel costs.
Soneye dismissed these allegations, arguing that the protesters lack insight into the complexities of Nigeria’s fuel supply chain.
“If they were informed, they would know that the GCEO is not responsible for the fuel price increase,” he stated.
Soneye emphasized Kyari’s efforts to maintain stable prices, noting, “The GCEO ensured that Nigerians had access to fuel at N620 per liter for over a year, even when the landing cost was above N1,100.”
He also refuted claims that NNPC Ltd. imported adulterated fuel, challenging anyone with evidence to present samples.
Soneye added that NNPC Ltd. remains focused on projects aimed at ensuring Nigeria’s energy security, a priority set forth in President Bola Tinubu’s roadmap.
“We have more pressing projects to accomplish to ensure energy security for our nation,” he stated.