The Nation Newspaper

Category: Niger Delta

  • Stay off Rivers, group tells Mohammed, other PDP Govs

    Stay off Rivers, group tells Mohammed, other PDP Govs

    The Niger Delta Reform Agenda (NDRA) has raised concerns about the involvement of Governor Bala Mohammed and other northern PDP Governors in Rivers politics.

    In a statement by its President, Sergeant Danielson, the group alleged that their sudden interest is driven by ulterior motives, primarily their 2027 political ambitions.

    Danielson claimed Governor Mohammed’s actions are a calculated move to exploit Rivers resources rather than a genuine concern for the people.

    The Niger Delta Reform Agenda condemned this development and called for immediate action to protect the state’s interests.

    The group also slammed Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara for allowing these external forces to interfere in the State’s affairs.

    It described Fubara’s actions as a betrayal of the trust placed in him by the people and a grave injustice to the state.

    “Governor Bala Mohammed, who has recently taken on the mantle of an activist among his peers, has shown an unusual and unsettling interest in the affairs of Rivers State while abdicating his role as Bauchi State governor,” Danielson said.

    “This unhealthy interest is not born out of genuine concern for the people of Rivers State but rather a calculated move to exploit the state’s resources for his political gain.

    “Unfortunately, Siminalayi Fubara, the Governor of Rivers State, is the one who opened the floodgates, allowing political opportunists to feast on the state’s resources. It is disheartening to see how the resources meant for the development and welfare of the people of Rivers State are being squandered by individuals who have no stake in the state’s future.

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    “The people of Rivers State deserve leaders who are committed to their welfare, not those who will sell the people of the state out for their political ambitions. Governor Bala Mohammed’s actions confirm his desperation to secure a foothold in Rivers State ahead of the 2027 elections.

    “His attempts to ingratiate himself with the people of Rivers State are nothing but a facade, designed to mask his true intentions. The Niger Delta Reform Agenda urges the people of Rivers State to see through this charade and reject any attempts to manipulate them for political gain.”

    The Niger Delta Reform Agenda demands accountability and transparency in the management of the State’s resources and urged the people of Rivers to remain vigilant and resist any efforts to undermine their sovereignty.

    Danielson added: “We urge the people of Rivers State to remain vigilant and resist any efforts to undermine their sovereignty. The state’s resources are meant for the development and prosperity of its people, not for the enrichment of a select few. The Niger Delta Reform Agenda calls on all well-meaning citizens to join us in this fight to protect our state’s resources.

    “Governor Fubara’s willingness to allow northern politicians to exploit Rivers State is a betrayal of the highest order. His actions have not only compromised the state’s resources but also its dignity.

    “The Niger Delta Reform Agenda demands accountability and transparency in the management of the state’s resources. We will not stand idly by while our state’s wealth is siphoned off by those without regard for our future.”

  • Niger Delta youths demand transparency on Port Harcourt refinery’s status

    Niger Delta youths demand transparency on Port Harcourt refinery’s status

    The Niger Delta Youth Network (NDYN) has expressed grave concern and disappointment over the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) inability to commence production at the Port Harcourt refinery in Rivers State despite numerous promises and six postponements as of August 2024.

    In a statement by Dakuku Francis, the group said this recurring failure confirms that a cabal within the NNPCL is deliberately scheming to exploit the region’s crude oil producers.

    The latest broken promise came from NNPCL’s Chief Financial Officer, Umar Ajiya, who assured that the refinery would begin operations in September 2024.

    However, after September, the NNPC has failed to provide any updates on the refinery’s status.

    The Port Harcourt refinery with a capacity of 210,000 barrels per day, was touted to be a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. After reaching mechanical completion of rehabilitation work in December, the facility was expected to start refining 60,000 barrels of crude oil daily.

    The group alleged that Mele Kyari, the Managing Director of NNPCL, plans to utilise the Port Harcourt refinery as a blending company.

    The Niger Delta youths demanded answers and action from the company, citing concerns that the repeated delays are part of a larger plot to exploit the region’s resources.

    Francis lamented that the failure to provide a clear timeline for the commencement of fuel production has created uncertainty and distrust among stakeholders.

    He said the NNPCL’s silence on the reasons behind the repeated delays and broken promises has raised questions about the company’s commitment to the region’s development.

    The youths are concerned that the company’s actions may be driven by a desire to maintain the status quo, where crude oil is exported and refined abroad, rather than benefiting the local economy.

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    Francis said: “The NNPCL’s lack of transparency and accountability has exacerbated regional tensions. We are demanding answers and action from the company, the repeated delays are part of a larger plot to exploit our region’s resources.

    “The failure to provide a clear timeline for the commencement of fuel production has created uncertainty and distrust among stakeholders. The NNPCL’s silence on the reasons behind the repeated delays and broken promises has raised questions about the company’s commitment to the region’s development.

    “The Niger Delta region, which produces the majority of Nigeria’s crude oil, deserves fair treatment and equitable benefits from the country’s oil and gas resources. The NNPCL’s actions, or lack thereof, threaten the region’s economic development and perpetuate a sense of marginalization.”

    In light of these concerns, the Niger Delta youths are calling for urgent action from the NNPCL.

    Francis said: “The company must provide a clear and realistic timeline for the commencement of fuel production at the Port Harcourt refinery.

    “Additionally, the NNPCL must explain the repeated delays and broken promises, including any technical or financial challenges that may have arisen.

    “Moreover, the company must ensure transparency in its dealings with regional crude oil producers. This includes providing regular updates on the refinery’s progress, engaging with stakeholders, and addressing concerns in a timely and responsive manner.”

  • Nigeria @ 64: If we persevere, we will overcome current challenges – Dafinone

    Nigeria @ 64: If we persevere, we will overcome current challenges – Dafinone

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has charged Nigerians to be hopeful, noting that with perseverance, the nation will overcome its current challenges.

    Dafinone stated this in his goodwill message to the people of Delta Central and Nigerians as the country marks its 64th Independence Anniversary.

    The Delta Central lawmaker, while congratulating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his focused and visionary leadership, tasked Nigerians to continue to support the President at this trying time, noting that though some of the policies of the government appear as painful, if sustained, Nigeria will be better off for it.

    According to him: “As Nigeria proudly marks its 64th Independence Anniversary, I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his focused and visionary leadership. His commitment to navigating our nation through its current challenges is commendable.

    “I also congratulate the resilient people of Delta Central and all Nigerians who continue to stand tall in the face of the current economic hardship.

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    “At this juncture in our nation’s history, we are reminded of the need for perseverance. The road to recovery may seem long, and the present economic difficulties may weigh heavily on our people. However, as we reflect on the theme “If We Persevere, We Will Overcome,” I urge every Nigerian to stay the course. With President Tinubu’s reform-driven government and sound policies, we are gradually laying the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous Nigeria.

    “While these economic challenges test our resolve as a people, we must remember that hardship is not permanent. With the right leadership and the right policies, soon we will emerge stronger and more united. I am confident that the measures being implemented by the Tinubu administration will soon yield positive results, bringing relief to millions of Nigerians who have borne the brunt of rising costs and inflation.

    “To my people in Delta Central, I understand the sacrifices you are making and the struggles many of you face daily. But I charge you to remain hopeful, for the dawn of a new era is near. We have persevered through times of uncertainty before, and together, with unity and determination, we will once again overcome these difficulties.

    “As we commemorate 64 years of nationhood, let us celebrate our shared history, our diversity, and the strength that lies within us as Nigerians. The journey may be tough, but the spirit of the Nigerian people is tougher. With steadfast leadership and the collective will of all citizens, I do not doubt that we will soon have cause to rejoice.

    “Long live Nigeria! Long live Delta Central!”

  • RMD donates live cow to Okuama IDPs, urges support for displaced families

    RMD donates live cow to Okuama IDPs, urges support for displaced families

    Veteran actor Hon. Richard Mofe-Damijo, popularly known as RMD, has donated a live cow to the Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Ewu-Okuama, in the Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State.

     The donation was made on Monday at the IDP camp in Ewu town, the traditional headquarters of the Ewu Kingdom.

    The residents of Okuama have been living in the IDP camp since May, following a military reprisal attack on their community. 

    The attack was in response to the killing of 17 military personnel by gunmen in the riverine area. The community was destroyed in the aftermath, displacing many families.

    While presenting the cow, RMD, represented by the Chairman of the Ewu-Okuama IDP Management Committee, Mr Abraham Ogbodo, expressed solidarity with the people of Okuama who were forced out of their homes due to the violent actions of unknown assailants. 

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    He condemned the killing of the military personnel and the subsequent destruction of the community by the soldiers, describing both events as tragic and regrettable.

    RMD, who hails from Aladja in Udu, extended heartfelt condolences to the people of Okuama, emphasising that as an Urhobo, he and his family share in their grief and loss. 

    He also commended the Delta State Government, under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for providing temporary shelter for the displaced persons and for initiating the reconstruction of destroyed infrastructure, including schools, hospitals, and other public facilities.

    Speaking on behalf of RMD, Ogbodo stated: “Last Saturday, our illustrious son and award-winning actor sent N800,000 to purchase a live cow for the feeding of our people in the Okuama IDP camp. Fortunately, we were able to buy the cow for N750,000. RMD stands in solidarity with the displaced Okuama people who have been here since April. We are honoured to receive such support from our Urhobo brother.”

    Ogbodo, a former Editor of The Guardian newspaper, called on more well-meaning individuals, particularly those from the Urhobo community, to assist the IDPs with food and other essential needs. 

    He also announced the State Government plans to close the camp by December, as the displaced persons are expected to return to their ancestral homes in Okuama.

    He also urged the military and other security agencies to collaborate with the state government in its efforts to rebuilding destroyed Okuama community by ceasing military operations in the community to enable construction worker and other residents of the community to freely go about their business without fear of being attacked or molestation.

    He noted that the military has the right to go after suspected killers of its personnel but the action must be carried out in such a manner that it doesn’t lead to further crisis and trauma for the already traumatised people of Okuama.

    The IDP Camp Commandant, Mr. Austin Ohwofaria, also made a personal donation of food items and cash to help alleviate the suffering of the displaced families. 

    His contribution included two bags of garri and a cash gift of N30,000, which he presented to the camp management to support the feeding of the IDPs. Ohwofaria noted that although he is the camp commandant, he was moved to act to help reduce the hardships faced by the displaced persons.

    The donations from RMD and the camp commandant highlight the ongoing support for the displaced Okuama community as they await the rebuilding of their homes and eventual return.

  • N’Delta youths agree to work with new Rivers NSCDC commandant

    N’Delta youths agree to work with new Rivers NSCDC commandant

    Niger Delta youths have pledged their support for the newly appointed Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Rivers State, Joachim Okafor.

    The decision followed a meeting held in Port Harcourt between the national leadership of the South-South Youths Initiative (SSYI) and the new Commandant.

    The youths initially expressed reservations, having called for the reinstatement of the former Commandant, Basil Igwebueze, due to his track record and swift response to security challenges in the region.

    However, the Niger Delta Youths national president, Imeabe Oscar, explained that the Commandant had assured the youths of his commitment to collaborating with them, particularly in tackling illegal oil bunkering and fostering peace in Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region.

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    During the meeting, Okafor outlined his intention to build upon the accomplishments of his predecessor by maintaining open communication with the region’s youth and addressing security concerns.

    He emphasised the importance of working closely with the community, stating that the grassroots hold the key to the success of his mission.

    “The new Commandant has promised to work with the South-South Youths Initiative and other youth groups in Rivers State and the Niger Delta to ensure that security challenges, including illegal bunkering, are addressed. He has committed to making his office accessible to the people, ensuring a functional synergy with the youths for a successful tenure,” Oscar said

    In a gesture of goodwill, Oscar confirmed that the youths are willing to collaborate with Okafor and expressed satisfaction with the Commandant’s outreach to the youth leadership just days into his new role, signalling a positive start.

    “We are happy that within a few days of assuming office, Okafor has already taken steps to meet with us. As a peace-loving organization, we are ready to support him as long as he maintains his promises of zero-tolerance for illegal bunkering, accessibility to the grassroots, and ensuring peace in the state,” Oscar stated.

    Oscar also clarified that the group’s initial call for Igwebueze’s reinstatement was not driven by any personal grievances against Okafor but was rooted in their desire for continued security in the state.

    He praised the NSCDC’s evolving reputation for integrity and commended the Commandant General of NSCDC, Dr. Audi Ahmed, for his reforms and commitment to deploying officers from the South-south to lead commands in the region.

    “The people currently hold the Corps in high regard due to its reduced corruption, and we want to maintain this respect,” Oscar added.

    He also expressed gratitude to the NSCDC Commandant General, Ahmed Audi for fulfilling his promise to prioritise regional appointments, stating that the decision aligns with the needs of the people.

  • NDDC warns against fake list of scheme’s beneficiaries 

    NDDC warns against fake list of scheme’s beneficiaries 

    The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has warned stakeholders against certain lists circulating in the social media, purportedly representing selected beneficiaries of the NDDC Youth Internship Scheme.

    The commission in a statement signed on Tuesday by its Director, of Corporate Affairs, Seledi Thompson-Wakama, said the fraudsters spreading false information about the youth internship scheme were also demanding personal information and payment of an acceptance fee.

    The statement said: “Please, note that the NDDC does not require any fees or payments for the placement of qualified youths in its internship programme.

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    “We wish to clarify that no such list has been collated, approved, or released and any claim to the contrary is false. Those who registered for the scheme should note that the process of selection is ongoing.

    “The final list of beneficiaries will be drawn from the NDDC’s official database and only those that were duly registered between August 5, 2024, when the registration was formally launched and August 31, 2024, when it closed, will be considered.”

    The commission advised members of the public, especially youths eagerly waiting for the completion of the selection process, to ignore any unauthorised list and seek information only from the NDDC official channels.

    The statement said: “We assure all our stakeholders that we remain committed to transparency and fairness in all our activities, including our youth empowerment programmes.

    “It is indeed disconcerting that some mischievous individuals are trying to take advantage of our youths who are seeking ways of being gainfully engaged in legitimate activities. In light of this unfortunate development, we urge our youths to be wary of these scammers.

    “For inquiries about our empowerment programmes, please contact us directly through our official channels. We also encourage beneficiaries of our programmes to verify facts on the NDDC’s official website: [www.nddc.gov.ng] and social media handles.”

  • Dafinone urges parents to preserve Urhobo language

    Dafinone urges parents to preserve Urhobo language

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has urged parents to teach their children the Urhobo language to prevent it from becoming extinct in the near future.

    The lawmaker stated this at the grand finale of the Urhobo Language Competition, initiated by the late Senator Pius Ehwerido and sponsored by Senator Dafinone in collaboration with the Urhobo Studies Association, USA.

    The event on Saturday at the 500 Capacity Hall at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources, Effurun, Delta State attracted Urhobos from the 24 kingdoms and from different strata of the society.

    In the keen contest, Onoji Ogheneruona, a student of the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun, won Senator Pius Akpor Ehwerido Prize of N500,000.00.

    The second and third of N300,000.00 and N200,000.00 were won by Miss Izobo Favour and Miss Urhobe Onome, respectively, while seven other contestants received consolation cash prizes of N100,000.00 each.

    Dafinone represented by Chief Tuesday Onoge, the former first Deputy President-General of the Urhobo Progress Union, UPU, stressed why Urhobo nation should not allow its language to die out, adding that language is a people identity, and when lost, the people are lost.

    According to him: “This Urhobo language competition is a remarkable initiative. Some of the world’s top scientists learned science in their native languages. For instance, the Japanese and Chinese studied science in their own languages, but in our part of the world, we were punished for speaking our mother tongue when the colonizers arrived,” he said.

    He emphasised that teaching children in their native language aids better comprehension. “If you teach a child in a foreign language, you first have to teach them the language before you teach the subject. That becomes an obstacle to their learning.”

    Dafinone expressed his satisfaction in the fact that the competition was not won by students studying Urhobo and Linguistic at Delta State University, Abraka, but by a student from the Petroleum Training Institute, Effurun. “This will serve as a wake-up call for our children to learn Urhobo.”

    Professor Roseline Aziza, Chairperson of the Urhobo Studies Association, USA, highlighted the importance of language to identity, stating, “Our languages are dying, and once a language dies, so does the identity of the people. Language sustains culture, teaching children about who they are, how they behave, and what they value.”

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    Aziza stressed that Urhobo, like other minority languages, is at risk of extinction, adding that the competition was initiated by the late Senator Pius Ehwerido in 2012. However, after his death, the competition was neglected until Senator Dafinone revived it.

    The competition consisted of three stages: an online registration followed by exams at centers including Urhobo College and Delta State University. Fifty students progressed to the second stage, which tested reading and writing comprehension. Ten finalists were selected from this pool.

    Onoji Ogheneruona, the overall winner, expressed gratitude: “I didn’t prepare much for the competition, but when the call came, I decided to give it a try. I had won a previous Urhobo language competition sponsored by former Ughelli North Council Chairman, Hon. Godwin Adode, and I took this as another opportunity to do my best. I thank Senator Dafinone for this opportunity.”

  • Let’s unite for stronger, more prosperous Delta at 33 – Dafinone

    Let’s unite for stronger, more prosperous Delta at 33 – Dafinone

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has congratulated the people of Delta on the 33rd anniversary of it’s creation, noting that through resilience, the State has made some progress despite numerous challenges.

    He stated with the enormous human and natural resources and a vibrant and enterprising population, Delta State has the potential to become an economic powerhouse not just in Nigeria but across Africa, lamenting the State is yet to maximise its full potential in the last 33 years.

    The Delta Central lawmaker also called on the Delta State Government to look inward by harnessing the creative energy of Delta youths to boost the economy of the state.

    He said: “On the occasion of Delta State’s 33rd anniversary, I, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing the Delta Central Senatorial District, extend my heartfelt felicitations to all Deltans. This milestone reminds us of our shared history, aspirations, and the resilience that has kept our beloved state progressing despite numerous challenges.

    “As we celebrate this anniversary, it is a time to reflect on how far we have come and to recommit ourselves to the collective vision of a prosperous Delta State.

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    “Our state is blessed with enormous human and natural resources. From vast oil reserves to fertile lands and a vibrant, enterprising population, Delta State has the potential to be an economic powerhouse not just in Nigeria but across Africa. However, it is disheartening to note that despite these abundant resources, our state has lagged in terms of infrastructural development. The roads, healthcare, education, and other key sectors still require significant improvement if we are to meet the expectations of our people.

    “I call on the leadership of Delta State to intensify its efforts in addressing the infrastructural gaps that have hindered our progress. We must align our development with the industrial and economic hubs of Nigeria, ensuring that we can compete favourably in attracting investments, creating jobs, and improving the quality of life for our citizens. The time to act is now; we cannot afford to waste more opportunities.

    “As we look to the future, let us unite in our commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Delta State. Let this anniversary be a reminder that the responsibility of building a better state lies not just with the government but with every Deltan. Together, we can transform Delta into a beacon of development and industrial growth.

    “I wish all Deltans, particularly the Urhobo Nation, a happy and reflective 33rd anniversary. May we continue to thrive, grow, and achieve the greatness that Delta State is destined for.”

  • Delta @33: Oginibo community elders, leaders, commend Oborevwori, citizens

    Delta @33: Oginibo community elders, leaders, commend Oborevwori, citizens

    Elders and leaders from the Oginibo Community in Ughievwen Kingdom, Ughelli South Local Government Area, have congratulated Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on the State’s 33rd anniversary.

    In a statement co-signed by Olorogun Andrew Feko Desi, Evang Lucky Chane, Prince Dan Pela, and Pa Samson Kujere, the community leaders recognized the state’s remarkable unity and resilience amid its diverse population.

    They expressed gratitude for Delta’s continued existence as a cohesive entity despite various challenges.

    The community leaders praised Governor Oborevwori for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to public service.

    They highlighted his efforts in leveraging resources and building upon the legacy of the state’s founding fathers, ultimately transforming Delta into a notable success story.

    “We are particularly thankful to our esteemed Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, for appointing one of our distinguished sons, Hon. Reuben Izeze, as Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads).

    “We also commend his administration for its significant achievements in promoting peace, unity, security, and infrastructure development across all three senatorial districts of our beloved state,” they stated.

    “The policies and initiatives of his administration have undeniably contributed to a brighter future for Delta State through the M.O.R.E Agenda,” the elders stated.

    The elders and leaders lauded former military President General Ibrahim Babangida for the creation of Delta State thirty-three years ago.

    They also recognized the contributions of past administrations, founding fathers, and key stakeholders, emphasizing that the collective efforts of all have propelled Delta State forward since its inception.

    “We honor our founding fathers for their dedication in establishing a strong foundation for our community. Your sacrifices will always be remembered,” stated the elders and leaders.

    They praised the peaceful coexistence among the state’s diverse population, highlighting how differences in ethnicity, culture, and tradition have enriched the state’s identity and strength.

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    The leaders further noted that the unity among various ethnic groups is a divine blessing that has positively impacted the state and its inhabitants.

    “Since the formation of our state, we have thrived in peace and unity, sharing a common destiny despite our varied backgrounds,” they remarked.

    Encouraging residents to nurture the love and unity present in the state, the elders and leaders called on all Deltans to promote initiatives that enhance communal bonds.

    They urged the citizens to continue their support for Governor Oborevwori, ensuring that the state reaches its full potential in alignment with the visions of its founders.

    “As representatives of the Oginibo Community, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to our diligent Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, as well as to former governors, founding fathers, and all Deltans on this significant occasion marking our 33rd anniversary.

    “We ask the Lord God Almighty to guide us in becoming a strong, united, peaceful, and prosperous community, united by a shared destiny,” the community stated.

  • Reps member Onuoha slams Atiku on NNPCL’s acquisition of OVH, cautions against politicisation

    Reps member Onuoha slams Atiku on NNPCL’s acquisition of OVH, cautions against politicisation

    House of Representatives member for Isiala Mbano / Onuimo / Okigwe Federal Constituency, Hon Miriam Onuoha, said the oil and gas sector of the economy was too critical to be politicised.

    Onuoha stated that while constructive criticism was necessary to strengthen the sector in the national interest, deploying propaganda and blackmail to score cheap political points was unhelpful, and worse, unpatriotic.

    She was reacting to a statement by a former Vice President Atiku Abubakar asking the Federal Government to explain why Oando got accelerated approval in AGIP/ENI Purchase, wherein she was quoted to have moved a motion directing the suspension of OVH assets.

    In a statement entitled: “THE ATIKU ABUBAKAR ALLEGATION ABOUT NNPC’S ACQUISITION OF OVH”, Onuoha said: “My attention has been drawn to a press release signed by one Phrank Shaibu, on behalf of former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, titled: “Atiku to FG: Explain Why Oando Got Accelerated Approval in AGIP/ENI Purchase,” issued on August 25, 2024, wherein I was quoted to have moved a motion directing the suspension of OVH assets.

    “The press release reads: “In July 2023, the House of Representatives, following the adoption of a motion moved by Miriam Onuoha, directed NNPC Ltd to suspend the acquisition of OVH assets pending an investigation by its committee.”

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    “For the record, on July 28, 2023, I sponsored a motion on the “Need to Investigate the Irregularities and Alleged Corruption in the Nigerian Energy Security Provider, NNPC Retail Limited and the Acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing,” in response to petition by staff members of NNPC Limited, who were unsure of their employment status following the acquisition of OVH by NNPC Limited, and subsequent relocation of NNPC Retail Limited to Lagos.

    “Following this motion, an ad hoc Committee was set up by the House leadership, and to which I was named a member, to investigate the allegations.”

    She stated further: “I would like to state that the Committee invited the Group CEO of NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, the Head of NNPC Retail Limited, and their management staff members, who appeared before the Committee where they gave reasons for the acquisition of OVH, as well as the procedures followed in the acquisition. They also rationalized the relocation to Lagos, which according to them, was to enable easy access to the market.

    “From their submissions and the bills, it was obvious that members and management of NNPC Retail were constantly commuting to Abuja to engage in trade, which was not only expensive but was also resulting in loss of man-hour, among other challenges.

    “Some staff members of NNPC Limited, who wrote and submitted the petition were also engaged by the Committee, and their fears were allayed on account of the detailed explanation by the NNPC management, and the Committee’s ability to ensure a transparent investigation.

    “In the course of the investigation, the Committee undertook a tour of the NNPC Retail facilities in Lagos. The exercise showed that the facilities were in good condition.”

    Onuoha continued: “I would like to take this opportunity to commend the management and leadership of NNPC Retail Limited, and indeed, the Group CEO of NNPC Limited, for his pragmatic leadership approach to transparent operations in the energy sector, and management of the NNPC Limited.

    “In the course of the investigation, the Committee found that President Bola Tinubu had taken some commendable steps to reposition the oil and gas sector.

    “The Committee also discovered that the NNPC Limited, under Mele Kyari, had made significant strides in enhancing transparency and accountability within the company. For instance, despite the criticisms it had received in recent times, the national oil company trumped the distractions by releasing its annual financial statement for 2023, wherein it posted a number of positive results. This demonstrates transparency.

    “Mele Kyari’s leadership has been characterised by a commitment to openness, which has fostered and bolstered trust and confidence in and among stakeholders. This, understandably, aligns with the implementation of his leadership’s Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) Agenda, which aims to ensure that NNPC’s operations are open, transparent, and accountable. This management philosophy, from our findings, has involved various measures, such as regular reporting, public disclosure of financial information, and collaboration with external auditors.:

    She added: “Also more importantly, the NNPC has increased its communication efforts to engage with the public and address growing concerns. This includes regular press conferences, social media updates, and community outreach programmes.

    “Without a doubt, Kyari’s leadership has contributed to building a more transparent and accountable NNPC. His efforts have helped to restore public trust in the NNPC and to position the company as a more responsible corporate citizen. Even so, there is still room for improvement.

    “While, as a legislator, I will continue to hold the Executive accountable, I will not allow myself to be used as an instrument of witch-hunt, blackmail, and intimidation. I will not be a willing tool for the opposition to destroy the good work of Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Tinubu, who is the Minister of Petroleum Resources.

    “The oil and gas sector is very critical to the Nigerian economy. It should not be politicised. While constructive criticism is necessary to strengthen the sector in the interest of our nation, deploying propaganda and blackmail to score cheap political points is unhelpful, and worse, unpatriotic.”