The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGI) has threatened legal action against what it described as an electronic blackmail campaign by a suspended group known as the Independent Conversion Sector (ICS).
In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the P-CNGI’s Technical Assistant on Stakeholder Management and Public Engagement, Kenechukwu Chukwu, said the smear campaign was allegedly led by Mr. Charles Yakub, owner of C & L Smart Energy Limited based in Lokogoma, Abuja.
Chukwu revealed that the company was part of the government’s CNG Conversion Incentive Programme until it was suspended in December 2024 over fraudulent practices. According to her, the firm was caught selling government-provided conversion kits—meant to be installed free for commercial drivers—at prices between N200,000 and N1.2 million.
“Investigations backed by video evidence and testimonies from victims showed sharp practices that even resulted in vehicle damage,” Chukwu said. “The matter has already been referred to the EFCC for further action.”
She said the ongoing online attacks and blackmail are an attempt to distract the public and tarnish the image of the programme following the company’s suspension.
The P-CNGI reiterated its commitment to transparency and emphasized that it does not award contracts directly, but works with other government bodies to implement its goals.
Chukwu urged the public and media to ignore the distractions and remain focused on the initiative’s mission to promote clean, affordable CNG and electric-powered transportation across Nigeria.
