Group calls for sack of Heineken Lokpobiri, Mele Kyari over politicization of fuel

Ijaw Youth Council President, Alaye Tari Theophilus, has called for the sack of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri; the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari over alleged politicization, nationwide hardship.

In a statement on Sunday, the group called for the immediate dismissal of Kyari and Heineken.

The statement accused the duo of politicizing the operations of the oil and gas sector, resulting in severe national hardship for Nigerians.

“Actions of the NNPC leadership and the Petroleum Minister oil have contributed to the ongoing economic challenges, which are most felt in oil-producing regions like the Niger Delta.

“Their inability to effectively manage the nation’s oil resources has led to a ripple effect of hardship, including high fuel prices, scarcity of petroleum products, and a strain on the national economy.

“The mismanagement and political maneuvering within the oil sector are evident,” Dr. Alaye Theophilus said. “The decisions made by these key figures are not in the best interest of the people but rather serve political interests that further marginalize the already struggling regions, especially the Niger Delta, which bears the brunt of oil exploration.”

He stressed that the NNPC GCEO and the Petroleum Minister oil have failed in their responsibilities to ensure transparency and accountability in the oil sector.

While noting that the politicization of oil revenues and contracts has exacerbated the economic crisis, leaving citizens grappling with inflated prices of essential commodities and an overall decline in living standards.

Alaye also accused the leadership of sidelining the oil-producing communities, particularly the Ijaw nation, in decisions that directly affect their welfare. He pointed out that the Niger Delta, despite being the hub of Nigeria’s oil wealth, continues to suffer from environmental degradation, unemployment, and poor infrastructure due to the neglect by those in power.

“Their continuous stay in office is a disservice to the nation. We demand that the President take decisive action by removing these individuals from their positions to restore confidence in the oil sector and alleviate the suffering of Nigerians,” Theophilus added.