Kyari Not Responsible for Fuel Price Hike – NNPCL
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has clarified that its Group Chief Executive Officer, Malam Mele Kyari, is not responsible for the recent hike in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) prices, commonly known as fuel.
Mr. Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer at NNPC Ltd., made this assertion on Tuesday, responding to demands from protesters who had called for Kyari’s resignation. The protesters, led by Civil Society Organisations, gathered outside the NNPC Headquarters in Abuja, attributing escalating fuel prices and supply issues to the GCEO.
In his response, Soneye stated that the protesters lacked a full understanding of the complex factors driving Nigeria’s fuel market. “If they were informed, they would know that the GCEO is not responsible for the fuel price increase,” he said. He further noted that Kyari’s leadership ensured access to fuel at N620 per litre for over a year, despite a landing cost exceeding N1,100.
Additionally, Soneye dismissed allegations regarding adulterated fuel imports, challenging any accusers to present evidence. “The NNPC Ltd. does not import adulterated fuel. If anyone has evidence to the contrary, they should bring forward samples of any such fuel imported by NNPC Ltd.”
He underscored that the NNPC remains focused on more critical projects aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s roadmap to secure Nigeria’s energy future. “We have more pressing projects to accomplish to ensure energy security for our nation,” Soneye said, assuring that protests would not deter NNPC’s efforts to fulfil this vision. Naira Gains as Nigeria’s Foreign Reserves Near S40 Billion
