Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate, has urged the current government to stop hiding details about the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and other state-owned enterprises.
Obi emphasized that Nigerians are entitled to clear information regarding the operations and financial health of these crucial institutions.
In a post on his X account early Tuesday, Obi criticized the ongoing fuel shortages and associated hardships, attributing them to the current administration’s mismanagement. He questioned the credibility of NNPCL’s recent ₦3 trillion profit declaration for 2023, noting the current claims of “financial constraints” impacting fuel supply.
Obi demanded increased transparency from NNPCL and urged the administration to address the issues it has created within the fuel sector. He also emphasized that Nigerians must actively seek accountability from their leaders.
“The conflicting reports on subsidy payments have left the public confused about the state of this vital company,” Obi stated. “It is puzzling that NNPCL, which reported a ₦3 trillion profit last year, is now citing financial difficulties in fuel distribution.”
He also criticized the administration’s handling of the $20 billion Dangote Refinery and the struggles of Modular Refineries in securing crude oil. According to Obi, these issues underscore the government’s failure.
Obi called for adherence to the Petroleum Industry Act, which mandates transparency from NNPCL, and insisted that the government must be held accountable for its missteps. “We must persist in uncovering the truth and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. The Nigerian people deserve better,” Obi concluded.
