The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has firmly denied any responsibility for the recent hike in fuel prices and dismissed accusations that it imports adulterated fuel into the country.
This bold statement comes after several civil society groups gathered in protest outside NNPC’s headquarters in Abuja, demanding answers and calling for the resignation of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Malam Mele Kyari.
Olufemi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer for NNPC, addressed the protesters’ grievances in a strong response, describing the protests as misguided and based on misinformation.
Soneye insisted that the protesters were misinformed about the causes of the recent fuel price increases, saying, “If they were informed, they would know that the GCEO is not responsible for the fuel price increase.”
He pointed out that the price increase was linked to external factors beyond the company’s control, emphasizing that NNPC had done its best to shield Nigerians from more severe price hikes.
“In fact, the GCEO ensured that Nigerians had access to fuel at N620 per litre for over a year, even when the landing cost was above N1,100,” Soneye explained.
He noted that NNPC’s efforts had prevented even higher fuel prices, a relief for many citizens already struggling with the rising cost of living.
Amidst the accusations, Soneye also addressed claims that the NNPC was importing substandard or adulterated fuel.
“The NNPC Ltd. does not import adulterated fuel,” Soneye stated emphatically.
He added, “If anyone has evidence to the contrary, they should bring forward samples of any such fuel imported by NNPC Ltd.”
The NNPC’s response appears to be a direct call for transparency, challenging any accusers to provide solid evidence to back their claims.
According to reports, the protests outside NNPC headquarters brought together civil society organizations seeking explanations for the rising fuel prices and what they claimed to be issues with fuel quality.
The outcry against NNPC has been building as Nigerians grapple with the effects of rising inflation and high living costs, fueled in part by soaring fuel prices.
Some protest organizers also called for a thorough investigation into NNPC’s role in fuel distribution and pricing, expressing concerns about potential mismanagement.
Yet, in his remarks, Soneye made it clear that NNPC is focused on achieving energy security for Nigeria and is committed to carrying out President Bola Tinubu’s energy strategy for the nation.
He assured the public that NNPC remains resolute in fulfilling this mission, despite what he described as distractions caused by recent protests.
“NNPC is committed to implementing President Tinubu’s energy roadmap for Nigeria,” Soneye affirmed.
This roadmap, which aims to transform the energy sector, has been touted by the government as a solution to Nigeria’s long-standing energy issues.
However, critics have questioned whether NNPC and the government have done enough to address the impact of recent fuel price increases on the average Nigerian.
Economic analysts have noted that fuel price hikes have cascading effects, increasing the cost of transportation, goods, and services, and worsening inflation.
