The Arewa Democratic Front (ADF), a non-governmental organization established in 2007 and devoted to the promotion of sustainable development and the preservation of democratic ideals and equity across Northern Nigeria, finds itself compelled to speak out against the current fuel crisis and the disastrous mismanagement of the petroleum sector under the leadership of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). The ongoing fuel scarcity, marked by unbearable queues and skyrocketing prices, is not just an economic burden but a moral failure that threatens the very fabric of our nation.
It is both alarming and deeply disheartening that under the watch of Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of NNPCL, Nigerians are being forced to purchase Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at exorbitant prices exceeding ₦1,000 per liter in some areas. This situation, which has pushed many citizens to the brink of despair, is a direct consequence of the gross inefficiency and rampant corruption that have come to characterize the NNPCL. The suffering inflicted on the masses, who have already been battered by economic hardships, cannot be overstated. It is a travesty that a country as rich in oil resources as Nigeria should find itself in such a deplorable situation.
The NNPCL’s failure to manage the petroleum sector effectively is evident in the long queues at petrol stations across the country, which serve as a daily reminder of the company’s ineptitude. The most damning evidence of this failure is the revelation of a staggering ₦6 trillion debt owed due to “secret” subsidy payments, despite the supposed cancellation of fuel subsidies over a year ago. This debt, which has been accumulated under the dubious guise of subsidy payments, raises serious questions about the transparency and accountability of the NNPCL under Kyari’s leadership.
Furthermore, the ADF is outraged by the blatant implementation of unfair subsidy practices, racketeering, and middlemen trading, all of which have exacerbated the fuel crisis and further undermined the credibility of the NNPCL. The recent shady acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing by NNPCL, coupled with the indiscriminate issuance of licenses to private operators, points to a deeply entrenched culture of corruption that has taken root within the corporation. These practices not only betray the trust of the Nigerian people but also pose a serious threat to the integrity of the Tinubu administration’s agenda.
Mele Kyari’s failure to revive Nigeria’s moribund refineries, despite being provided with all necessary resources and support by the Tinubu administration, is yet another testament to his unsuitability for his position. The recent suggestion to hand over the management of these refineries to private firms is nothing but another scheme to defraud the nation under the guise of privatization. This proposal, if implemented, would only serve to deepen the crisis in the petroleum sector and further impoverish the Nigerian people.
The ADF is particularly disturbed by Kyari’s brazen disregard for the legislative process. His refusal to honor the summons of the House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee, which sought to probe the NNPCL’s activities, is an affront to the democratic principles upon which this nation is built. Kyari’s actions demonstrate a clear lack of respect for the rule of law and highlight his determination to operate with impunity. Such conduct is unacceptable from a public official, and it must not be tolerated.
Given these grave concerns, the ADF calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to act swiftly and decisively. We urge you, Mr. President, to suspend Mele Kyari from his position as Group CEO of NNPCL pending a thorough investigation into the numerous allegations of corruption, mismanagement, and financial impropriety that have been leveled against him. Furthermore, we demand that Kyari be held accountable for his actions and, if found guilty, be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
The Nigerian people have suffered enough under the weight of this fuel crisis. The continued presence of Mele Kyari at the helm of NNPCL is a clear and present danger to the nation’s economic stability and security. His tenure has been marked by scandal after scandal, and it is clear that he has run out of ideas and lost the moral authority to lead. The time has come for a complete overhaul of the NNPCL’s leadership. A new team, free from the taint of corruption and committed to transparency and accountability, must be appointed to steer the company—and by extension, the nation—towards a brighter future.
The ADF stands with the suffering masses of Nigeria and will not relent in its advocacy for justice, equity, and the rule of law. We call on all well-meaning Nigerians, civil society organizations, and international partners to join us in this demand for accountability. Let the poor breathe. Let the suffering cease. The future of our nation depends on it.
Signed
Engr. Mustafa Yusuf
National Coordinator
Malam Muazu Haruna
National Secretary
