The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has dismissed allegations of ethnic favoritism in its recruitment, promotions, and appointments. In a statement released on Saturday, December 28, 2024, the company’s spokesperson, Femi Soneye, clarified that NNPCL operations are guided by merit, expertise, and business needs, without interference from President Bola Tinubu.
NNPCL’s Response to Farooq Kperogi’s Allegations
Soneye’s statement was in response to an opinion article by Farooq Kperogi titled “Tinubu’s Buharisation of the NNPC”, which accused the president of influencing leadership appointments at the NNPCL in favor of Yoruba individuals.
The spokesperson refuted these claims, describing them as misconceptions.
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“Decisions within the NNPCL are guided by merit, business requirements, and expertise. The allegations of tribal favoritism are baseless,” Soneye said.
He added that President Tinubu does not interfere with the company’s operations and has empowered the NNPCL to function independently.
Tinubu’s Policies in the Oil and Gas Sector
According to Soneye, President Tinubu’s administration has implemented transformative policies that have significantly improved the oil and gas sector:
- Institutional Independence: The NNPCL operates autonomously, free from political or ethnic influence.
- Sector Reforms: Policies introduced by the administration have strengthened the industry and enhanced economic growth.
- Progressive Benchmark: The president’s policies have surpassed achievements recorded by many of his predecessors.
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Soneye Criticizes Kperogi’s Assertions
The NNPCL spokesperson expressed disappointment in Kperogi’s article, accusing him of exploiting ethnic identities to tarnish the president’s reputation.
“It is unfortunate that a professor of Mr. Kperogi’s standing would resort to such tactics to demonize President Tinubu,” Soneye stated.
The NNPCL has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, meritocracy, and professionalism in its operations. While the company continues to implement reforms in the oil and gas sector, it has also urged stakeholders to prioritize facts over unfounded allegations to ensure the industry’s continued growth and stability.
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