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Coalition charges NNPC to embrace transparency, accountability in its dealings

A human rights group, the Coalition for Good Governance and Open Leadership in Nigeria held a press briefing in Lagos on Thursday, urging the management of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) to be transparent in its dealings and to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to reposition the oil sector.

The group made this call during the press briefing in the Ikeja area of the state. The event was attended by its leaders, including Comrades Declan Ikhekaire, Shina Loremikan, Rasaq Oladosu, Gbenga Soloki, and others. They emphasised the need for transparency, accountability, and integrity in the functioning of public institutions, especially those as crucial as the NNPC.

Additionally, the coalition expressed its disapproval of the recent campaign of calumny against the management and the Group Chief Executive of NNPC in the past few weeks.

The spokesman for the coalition, Comrade Ikhekaire, addressed the media and emphasised the group’s strong commitment to good governance.

He stated that the coalition was determined to ensure that any allegations of wrongdoing were thoroughly investigated and justice served if necessary.

However, he also cautioned that whoever raises such allegations must ensure that these allegations are not used as a political weapon to achieve ulterior motives that could jeopardise the stability and progress of the NNPC.

“Allegations of corruption or misconduct should never be wielded as a political tool solely for the purpose of tarnishing reputations and creating chaos within the organisation,” the rights activist said.

Ikhekaire pointed out that his group had recently confronted a series of allegations against the NNPC’s management, which appeared to be part of a premeditated plot to blackmail them.

He noted that a diligent investigation by his group revealed that the allegations were being sponsored by a self-proclaimed whistleblower.

“It should also be noted that the State Security Service has already concluded its investigation into the same subject matter and has begun prosecuting these blackmailers, while their accomplices are also undergoing investigation.

“It is essential to maintain a fair and impartial approach to any allegations made against public officials, including those leading vital institutions like the NNPC. Such matters should be addressed through appropriate channels, such as law enforcement agencies and the judiciary, to guarantee a just and objective process,” Ikhekaire emphasised.

“Let it also be noted that the National Assembly has conducted a diligent probe of these allegations and has cleared the air over these phantom claims by these elements, whose ultimate objective is to seek the removal of the GCEO of NNPC, Mr Kyari. This report is available here for Nigerians to see.

“Furthermore, we urge Nigerians to be mindful of the antics of these latter-day anti-corruption crusaders, whose ultimate goal is to blackmail unsuspecting Nigerians for selfish gains.

“In conclusion, let us reiterate that the Coalition for Good Governance and Open Leadership is committed to upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance.

We encourage all stakeholders to act responsibly, ethically, and with the best interests of Nigeria in mind. Any allegations of misconduct must be handled through appropriate legal channels to ensure a just and unbiased outcome,” he added.

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