Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for admitting to a $6 billion debt to petrol suppliers, which has exacerbated fuel scarcity in Nigeria. Atiku accused the NNPCL of deceit and questioned its transparency, blaming the Tinubu administration for the company's decline.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has sharply criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for its recent admission of a $6 billion debt to petrol suppliers. This revelation made public on September 1, has added to the ongoing fuel scarcity that has gripped the nation for over six weeks.
Atiku, through his media aide Phrank Shaibu, condemned the NNPCL's handling of the situation, accusing the company of "layers of deceit and lack of transparency." He questioned the validity of the profits previously reported by the NNPCL, suggesting that the company's current financial troubles have exposed deep-seated issues within its operations.
NNPCL’s Chief Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, acknowledged the debt, emphasizing the significant financial strain it has placed on the company's ability to maintain fuel supply. Soneye assured the public that the NNPCL remains committed to fulfilling its responsibilities under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), working closely with government agencies to ensure a steady supply of petroleum products across the country.
Atiku also criticized President Bola Tinubu's administration, accusing it of contributing to the NNPCL’s downfall by "ruthlessly dismantling" its assets. His remarks highlight growing concerns about the future stability of Nigeria's energy sector amidst mounting financial challenges.
