A group has demanded the immediate resignation of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kolo Kyari, after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60.
The group, Arewa Accountability Network (AAN), in a communique on Monday after a press conference in Abuja, reasoned that in line with Nigeria’s civil service policy which mandates retirement at either 60 years of age or after 35 years of service, Kyari who recently turned 60, should step down as the NNPCL boss.
In the communique the group’s national coordinator, Samuel Audu, criticised Kyari’s leadership of the company, particularly regarding fuel supply challenges and pricing policies, which they claim had worsened economic hardship for Nigerians.
The AAN also alleged that fuel queues had returned across the country despite the high cost of petrol, causing untold suffering to citizens and urged the Nigerian government to enforce civil service regulations and ensure a leadership transition at the NNPCL.
“It is crucial to acknowledge that the rules governing the civil service are designed not only to foster order within public institutions but also to ensure a continuous injection of fresh ideas and leadership when necessary,” the group stated.
“Fuel queues have become a common sight across the nation, even with the elevated prices for these essential resources. As the head of the NNPCL, it is your responsibility to ensure that the operation and distribution of fuel meet the needs of Nigerians.”
Addressing Kyari directly, the AAN said:
“Regrettably, your administration has undoubtedly failed in this regard, leading to pervasive dissatisfaction and economic strain on our citizens.
“In light of your pending retirement, the recent announcement regarding the commencement of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries raises eyebrows.
“This seems to be a calculated move aimed not at genuinely addressing the challenges of the Nigerian oil sector but rather as a distraction from the reality of your impending resignation and the continued struggles faced by your tenure.
“We implore you to reflect on the implications of your continued leadership. Your lengthy service has been marked by strained relationships with both citizens and other stakeholders.
“Therefore, it is only prudent and dignified for you to step down from your position as GCEO of NNPCL, respecting the healthy boundaries set forth in the civil service mandate.”
The group also threatened to mobilize its members and shut down the NNPCL Towers in the FCT if Kyari failed to resign.
“Should you choose not to resign, we will rally together as members of the Arewa Accountability Network to take a stand for what is right. We will have no choice but to mobilise and shut down the NNPCL Towers until the sanctity of our civil service rules is maintained.”
