Kyari: Protesters storm National Assembly, demand his removal

A group of protesters have stormed the National Assembly in Abuja on Friday demanding the removal of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, stating that his administration has done more to the local refineries than good.

According to the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), the Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations demanded an immediate investigation into alleged sabotage of the country’s petroleum refinery turnaround plan.

The CSOs expressed their concerns about the policies implemented by the NNPC to revamp the oil sector.

They asserted that these policies prioritize profits over supporting domestic initiatives aimed at achieving energy self-sufficiency and job creation.

The national spokesperson of the group, Mr. Segun Adebayo, made the remarks while speaking with journalists at the event.

Mr. Adebayo requested President Bola Tinubu to caution Kyari to avoid policies that could worsen the current economic crises the country is facing.

Adebayo stated that “Nigeria’s potential to refine fuel locally is being hindered by vested interests within the NNPCL, which continue to prioritize the importation of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

“This is a concerning issue, as Nigeria has the capacity to refine over 590,000 barrels of fuel per day, making it a leading producer of refined products.”

“Nigeria’s reliance on unnecessary imports results in an annual foreign exchange outflow of billions, imposing significant pressure on the nation’s economy.”

“Meanwhile, the general public suffers the consequences of volatile global oil prices and currency devaluation, while a select group benefits financially from preserving the existing state of affairs,” he added.

The national spokesperson speaking further said that “it’s crucial that we hold accountable those individuals who prioritize personal gain over Nigeria’s prosperity.”

“By doing so, they’re hindering the nation’s progress toward self-sufficiency, leaving it vulnerable to the unpredictable international oil market.”

“This not only affects the economy but also undermines efforts to achieve energy security and stability.”

“The current state of affairs is utterly unacceptable and economically unsustainable for a country blessed with an abundance of natural resources like Nigeria.”

“Nigerian industrialists like Aliko Dangote, have made investments in local refineries to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel.

“Dangote Refinery embodies a game-changing prospect for Nigeria’s energy self-sufficiency and economic revitalization, poised to catapult the nation toward.

“Despite the potential benefits of local refining, the leadership of the NNPCL has surprisingly hindered domestic refinery operations.

“They have prioritized importing PMS over supporting local refining initiatives and this deliberate obstruction harms Nigeria’s economy, deterring investors, limiting job creation, and perpetuating dependency.”

“We know that President Tinubu loves Nigeria, and we believe he wants the best for the nation.

“We urge him to guide NNPCL’s leadership, headed by Mele Kyari, to reconsider policies that may plunge Nigeria into deeper economic turmoil, ensuring a brighter future for all Nigerians.”

“Tinubu should promptly authorize a thorough investigation into the alleged sabotage within the fuel sector, specifically targeting the cabal’s activities, to uncover and expose any malicious manipulation or corruption.”

“This move would help identify and address the obstacles hindering Nigeria’s progress toward energy self-sufficiency and economic growth.”

Also speaking, the national coordinator of the group, Mr. Benjamin James, called on the authorities to allow the sale of crude to local refineries in naira.

He said: “Mandating that Nigerian crude oil be sold to local refineries in naira instead of dollars is a game-changer for the economy.”

“This policy shift would drastically reduce foreign exchange losses, empower local businesses, and shield the naira from volatility.”

“By adopting a policy that prioritizes local investors and domestic refining, the country can unlock numerous benefits.”

“The move will empower local investors, fostering growth in the refinery sector and creating a surge in job creation opportunities.

Also, the group demands the removal of Mele Kyari, the head of NNPCL, and has threatened to escalate the protest nationwide, covering all 36 states, if their demands aren’t met.”

“NICOCSO is committed to continuing its advocacy efforts, mobilizing support across all 36 states daily, until the government takes concrete action.”

“We demand transparency, reform, and accountability within the NNPCL.”

“The future of Nigeria’s economy and the well-being of its citizens hinge on tackling the obstacles to achieving energy independence.

“We won’t back down until this administration addresses our concerns.”

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