A prominent pro-democracy organization has intensified pressure on Nigeria's leadership, demanding immediate action regarding serious allegations against a top petroleum industry official. The Network for Good Governance and Accountability in Nigeria (NeGGAN) has formally called upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to authorize a comprehensive investigation into multiple accusations surrounding Engr. Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
Senate Disrespect and Constitutional Powers
The advocacy group has simultaneously urged the Nigerian Senate to exercise its constitutional authority by invoking relevant sections of the 1999 constitution alongside the Legislative Houses (Powers & Privileges) Act 2018. NeGGAN specifically recommends that the Senate issue a warrant of arrest against the NNPCL GCEO, citing his repeated refusal to honor parliamentary invitations. According to the organization's statement, Ojulari has disregarded five separate summons from the Senate Committee on Public Accounts regarding the ongoing probe of unaccounted N230 trillion.
Presidential Silence and EFCC Concerns
Engr. Jacob Yakubu, the Convener of NeGGAN, expressed profound concern about the Presidency's apparent silence despite numerous serious allegations against the petroleum chief. Yakubu questioned why President Tinubu has not ordered an independent investigation into Ojulari's activities, particularly given that "multiple allegations against him with some heavy petitions submitted to the EFCC by notable organizations in Nigeria" have been formally documented.
The group emphasized that Nigerians deserve full transparency regarding what transpired during Ojulari's previous encounter with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Although the NNPCL CEO was arrested by the anti-graft agency last year over various allegations and subsequently released, the findings from that investigation have not been made public, raising questions about accountability and due process.
Financial Transactions and Political Connections
NeGGAN's statement highlighted specific financial concerns that demand clarification. The organization pointed to allegations that Ojulari transferred millions of dollars to the account of AA & R Investment Group, a company reportedly owned by Abdullahi Bashir-Haske, who is identified as the son-in-law of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. According to the group's information, Bashir-Haske was detained and allegedly confessed to holding the funds on Ojulari's behalf. However, no official statement has clarified the amount of dollars involved, whether the funds were confiscated, or what ultimately happened to the money.
Political Backing and Industry Context
The advocacy group also referenced significant political commentary on the matter, noting former Edo State Governor Senator Adams Oshiomhole's allegation from November of last year. Oshiomhole reportedly claimed that Engr. Ojulari was attempting to cover up fraud within NNPCL's financial records, adding further weight to calls for investigation.
This development occurs against the backdrop of Ojulari's recent reaffirmation of his position following industry speculation about his potential resignation. Despite rumors that he was forced to step down, and confirmation from the EFCC that it received a petition against him, Ojulari maintained his leadership role after speaking at an industry event. It is noteworthy that President Tinubu personally appointed Ojulari as NNPC CEO, and the executive recently celebrated his 100 days in office.
In related industry developments, the Federal Government has disclosed that crude oil theft in Nigeria involves certain individuals and sophisticated international syndicates. Ojulari himself has credited collaboration with security and intelligence agencies for reducing resource theft and pipeline attacks, while urging African nations to unite in protecting their energy resources and "take destiny into their own hands."
