Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for its lack of transparency after the company disclosed a $6 billion debt to petrol suppliers. This revelation, made public on Sunday, September 1, has shed light on the fuel scarcity that has affected the nation for the past six weeks. NNPCL’s Chief Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, confirmed the debt, noting the significant financial pressure it has placed on the company’s operations.
“NNPC Ltd has acknowledged recent reports regarding its significant debt to petrol suppliers. This financial strain threatens the sustainability of fuel supply,” Soneye stated.
He assured that NNPCL remained committed to its role as the supplier of last resort, as outlined in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), and is working with government agencies to ensure a consistent supply of petroleum products nationwide.
Reacting to this development, Atiku expressed deep concern over the situation through his media aide, Phrank Shaibu.
“What has become of these fictitious or phantom profits you once proudly proclaimed? Layers of deceit and lack of transparency have brought you to this unfortunate juncture,” Atiku said in a terse statement via X.
He further accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of driving the NNPC to ruin, describing the current actions as the “ruthless dismantling of its assets.”
