LAGOS — The Nigerian oil sector, vital to the nation’s economy, is facing increasing scrutiny due to allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Calls have intensified for the Federal Government to address these issues by rooting out corrupt practices and influential cabals within the industry.
Hon. Dennis Adikwuru, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), criticized the pervasive corruption in the oil sector during an interview with Sunday Independent. He argued that corruption extends from the presidency to various government bodies, including the National Assembly and the judiciary.
Adikwuru expressed concerns about the current state of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), suggesting that the issues observed there are just a fraction of the broader problems affecting the sector. He emphasized that addressing these issues requires more than just removing officials but necessitates a comprehensive overhaul of the system.
Bishop Joseph Ighalo Edoro, a cleric and public affairs commentator, supported calls for the resignation of Mele Kolo Kyari, the Group Managing Director of NNPCL. Edoro criticized Kyari for failed promises and ineffective management of refinery maintenance projects. He highlighted that significant funds allocated for refinery repairs have not led to tangible improvements.
Professor John Ebhomien, an All Progressives Congress (APC) member and financial expert, also weighed in. He noted that despite significant investments aimed at revamping Nigeria’s refineries, the sector remains troubled. Ebhomien urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to replace Kyari and overhaul NNPCL’s management to restore integrity and efficiency.
Ebhomien called for a thorough investigation into the oil sector’s controversies and for recovering misappropriated funds. He advised President Tinubu to appoint new leadership with proven integrity to lead the oil sector towards recovery.
As discussions continue, the urgency for reform in Nigeria’s oil sector becomes increasingly apparent, with stakeholders calling for decisive action to address longstanding issues of corruption and mismanagement.
