Sahara Reporters has reported that the Arewa Accountability Network has called for the immediate resignation of Mele Kolo Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 60.
In a bold statement shared through their official X handle, the group emphasized that Kyari’s continued stay at the helm of the NNPCL is in direct violation of Nigeria’s civil service regulations, which mandate retirement either at the age of 60 or after 35 years of service—whichever comes first.
The Arewa Accountability Network, led by its coordinator Samuel Audu, argued that Kyari’s decision to remain in office undermines the established rules and has contributed to a worsening of Nigeria’s fuel supply challenges. They criticized his leadership for not only failing to stabilize fuel distribution but also for the skyrocketing petrol prices, which have placed an unbearable burden on Nigerians already grappling with economic hardship.
“The persistent fuel shortages and inflated fuel prices have plunged millions of Nigerians into suffering, despite promises of a robust energy plan,” Audu stated. He further questioned the integrity of Kyari’s leadership, urging the government to strictly enforce civil service regulations and ensure that a timely leadership transition takes place at the NNPCL.
The group’s criticism extended to Kyari’s handling of the country’s oil industry, particularly his administration’s failure to address the recurring fuel queues that have plagued Nigeria. The group accused Kyari of neglecting his duties by allowing these challenges to persist, adding to the economic strain on the population.
“Fuel queues are no longer an exception but the norm, even with exorbitant fuel prices,” the statement read. “As the GCEO of NNPCL, it is your duty to ensure that fuel distribution operates smoothly, meeting the needs of the people. However, your leadership has only deepened the crisis.”
Further raising suspicions, the group pointed to Kyari’s recent announcement about the commencement of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries. Many within the Arewa Accountability Network have suggested that this announcement might be an attempt to deflect attention from his overdue retirement.
“This announcement about refinery activities appears more like a strategic move, not to solve Nigeria’s oil woes, but rather to divert focus from the inevitable reality of your resignation,” they argued.
Audu and his team have now demanded that Kyari step down immediately, citing the importance of adhering to civil service norms and restoring the Nigerian public’s confidence in their institutions. “We call on you to reflect on your leadership, which has strained relations with the public and stakeholders alike. It is only proper and dignified for you to step down in respect of the civil service guidelines.”
The network made it clear that if Kyari does not comply, they will take drastic action. “Failure to resign will leave us no choice but to mobilize and shut down the NNPCL Towers. We will stand firm to protect the integrity of our civil service rules,” Audu warned, emphasizing the growing frustration among Nigerians and stakeholders.
With this escalating tension, the pressure on Mele Kyari to relinquish his post and allow for a leadership change at NNPCL has never been higher. The Arewa Accountability Network is determined to ensure that the sanctity of Nigeria’s civil service policies is upheld—no matter the cost.
PIONEER NEWS 