September 03, (THEWILL) — A civil society organisation under the aegis of the Renewed Hope Interest Defenders has called for the immediate removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Bashir Bayo Ojulari.
This comes just six day after the NNPC boss, on Thursday, alleged that his life and those of the company’s management staff are under serious threat, declaring that some “powerful elements” were bent on removing him from office.
THEWILL reports that since his appointment in April 2025, Ojulari has been dogged by controversies, including allegations of mismanagement of NNPC funds, alleged fraud and close ties to businessman, Bashir-Haske, a close associate and in-law of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who he allegedly used to launder billions of naira from the NNPC.
Speaking in Abuja, on Wednesday, the group, led by Obed Agu, accused Ojulari of mismanagement, fostering division within the company, and working against the broader reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The group alleged that Ojulari’s leadership has led to internal crises, a lack of staff motivation, wasteful expenditure, and the promotion of questionable business relationships. They claimed that his continued leadership poses a threat to the stability and credibility of Nigeria’s most strategic national corporation.
They called on President Tinubu to immediately relieve Ojulari of his position and appoint a new chief executive with the capacity to unite the organisation and drive institutional reform.
Agu called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to prosecute Ojulari for alleged money laundering and corruption, citing unresolved allegations and links to individuals reportedly under investigation.
Agu alleged that Ojulari arbitrarily increased his own salary and backdated the adjustment to include arrears from April, an action as described as self-serving and unethical.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
