NNPC: Group Mentions Those Allegedly Pushing Reports Claiming Presidency Forced Ojulari to Resign
- A civic advocacy group, the Situation Room on Positive Reforms, has condemned the reports alleging that NNPC Ltd. CEO, Bashir Ojulari, was forced to resign
- The group described the reports as a ploy by corrupt elements threatened by Ojulari’s anti-graft reforms and achievements in reviving Nigeria’s energy sector
- They urged the Presidency to support Ojulari and called on the media to guard against misinformation capable of inciting unrest
Abuja, FCT - A civic advocacy group, the Situation Room on Positive Reforms, has condemned what it describes as a coordinated fake news campaign targeting the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Bashir Ojulari.
In a statement sent to Legit.ng on Sunday, August 3, the group said false reports suggesting that Ojulari was forced to resign by the Presidency were aimed at destabilising Nigeria’s energy sector and undermining recent reforms led by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Source: Facebook
Group mentions those orchestrating 'false reports'
In the statement signed by Dr. Collins Atawodi, the group described the allegations as "malicious lies" allegedly orchestrated by individuals threatened by Ojulari’s anti-corruption stance and drive to reform the NNPCL.
“Mr. Ojulari’s refusal to engage in corrupt practices and his commitment to transparency in managing oil revenue have made him a target of those who profited from the mismanagement of NNPCL in the past,” Atawodi said.
The Situation Room pointed to Ojulari’s recent achievements, including efforts to rehabilitate Nigeria’s refineries and recover funds tied up in questionable International Oil Company (IOC) agreements.
They warned that attempts to discredit him could result in renewed fuel shortages, re-emergence of fuel queues, and potential unrest.
Group calls for media vigilance and government support
The group urged the Presidency to continue backing Ojulari, describing him as a key figure in efforts to reposition the NNPCL and boost national revenue.
They also called on media outlets to verify reports thoroughly before publication to prevent the spread of misinformation.
“Fake news of this magnitude not only threatens national stability but also erodes public trust in the media,” the statement said.
Source: Facebook
NNPC: Group demands end to smear campaign
The Situation Room also demanded that those behind the alleged smear campaign halt their actions and allow Ojulari to continue his reforms unimpeded.
“Enough is enough. The enemies of progress must not be allowed to succeed in reversing the gains made so far,” Atawodi said.
Presidency source speaks on Ojulari's alleged forced resignation
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that a source in the presidency described the report by some media platforms (not Legit.ng) that Ojulari has resigned from his position as "rubbish and false"
The presidency source dismissed the claims, insisting that the reports were false. President Tinubu appointed the NNPC boss in April 2025. He was then mandated to reform the oil firm and enhance its operational efficiency by restoring investors' confidence and making the company more commercially viable.
Ojulari was appointed after President Tinubu sacked the former board of the NNPP, including the then group chief executive officer, Mele Kyari.
Source: Legit.ng
