Group Condemn Calls for Mele Kyari’s Removal, Laud His Leadership
The Concerned Citizens of North-East have strongly denounced the recent demand by the Coalition of Niger Delta Oil Producing Ethnic Nationalities Forum for the removal of Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
In a press statement obtained by our correspondent on Monday, the group described the call as an unwarranted and baseless attack, asserting that it distracts from the core issues plaguing Nigeria’s refineries, particularly in Port Harcourt and Warri.
“We wish to categorically state that the responsibilities for ensuring the optimal functioning of refineries lie primarily with the Federal Government, under the purview of the Minister of Petroleum Resources and the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“It is, therefore, both unfair and baseless to single out Mele Kyari for blame in matters beyond his direct executive mandate.”
The group highlighted Kyari’s achievements as the GCEO of NNPCL, citing his efforts to transform the company into a commercially viable entity under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). It noted that his leadership has been marked by transparency, accountability, and groundbreaking reforms that have repositioned the oil and gas sector.
“Kyari’s leadership has driven historic changes within NNPCL, and his contributions should not be overshadowed by misplaced grievances,” the statement added.
While acknowledging the rights of individuals and groups to express their concerns, the Concerned Citizens of North-East urged stakeholders to engage constructively with appropriate authorities rather than fostering divisive rhetoric.
The group further called for a united effort to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s energy sector, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions that benefit all Nigerians.
“We reiterate our support for Mele Kyari’s leadership and urge the Federal Government and all Nigerians to unite in tackling the pressing challenges in the energy sector. Let us channel our collective energies toward solutions that foster national progress and unity,” the statement concluded.
The group’s position reflects growing support for Kyari’s leadership amid mounting criticisms, with many stakeholders emphasizing the importance of a collaborative approach to resolving the nation’s energy crisis.
