‘We are not criminals and we are not thieves’ Mele Kyari defends self and NNPC at senate investigative hearing
The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has expressed his frustration over attacks on him and NNPCL personnel regarding the alleged importation of substandard petroleum products into Nigeria.
Kyari made these remarks on Wednesday during his appearance before a senate ad-hoc committee led by Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele, which is investigating alleged economic sabotage in the petroleum industry.
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Kyari stated that he had been the target of undue criticism from the media and prominent individuals within the country. He emphatically denied any involvement by NNPCL in the sabotage of refineries, emphasizing the company’s commitment to national development.
“We are faithful and loyal to the development of this country. It is our duty to protect the interest of this country. The NNPC is a company that belongs to over 200 million Nigerians,” Kyari asserted.
He further explained the complexities of the refining business, which requires securing both feedstock and a market.
Kyari reiterated that NNPCL and its shareholders are dedicated to the nation’s interests and have never engaged in any acts of sabotage. “We are not against anyone and will not sabotage anyone. We are not criminals and we are not thieves. We will protect our dignity so we can serve this country,” he declared.
Kyari also highlighted the challenges facing the oil and gas industry, noting that there are issues he is aware of but cannot disclose publicly at this time. He called for the committee sessions to be televised live to ensure transparency and allow all Nigerians to follow the proceedings.
Similarly , Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), also expressed his appreciation to the committee for the opportunity to address the allegations. Ahmed criticized the misinformation that has led to unfair treatment by both the Nigerian press and influential figures.
“We have been unfairly treated, not only by the Nigerian press but by very senior Nigerians highly placed because of misinformation,” Ahmed stated.
Kyari, Ahmed in the eyes of the storm…
OrderPaper recalls that the duo of Kyari and Ahmed came under public scrutiny after a motion sponsored by Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong (APC Cross River South) regarding the importation of hazardous products and dumping of substandard diesel in to Nigeria.
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Similarly motions from the House of Representatives has led to call for the investigations into the importation of adulterated petroleum products, the non-availability of crude oil for domestic refineries and unguarded statement over Dangote refinery by the NMDPRA CEO.
