The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has alleged that powerful interests are plotting to remove him from office following sweeping reforms aimed at reviving Nigeria’s ailing refineries.
Speaking on Thursday at the NNPCL headquarters in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), led by its President, Comrade Festus Osifo, Ojulari revealed that both his life and those of top management staff were under serious threat.
According to Ojulari, his “offence” was simply implementing President Bola Tinubu’s mandate to reposition the national oil company and restore the refineries to optimal capacity.
“This is about the reforms we are introducing. I’m not hiding from anybody. I’m not a politician. I will have to learn a bit more about politics, but for me, this is a development plan—and I’m ready to see it through,” he stated.
His remarks come weeks after speculation suggested that he had been forced to resign by security agencies such as the DSS and EFCC—claims that both agencies, as well as the Presidency, have since denied.
Ojulari disclosed that management was considering adopting the NLNG model to drive efficiency, transparency, and long-term sustainability. Despite mounting pressures, he stressed his commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s refineries are brought back to life.
Earlier, PENGASSAN President Osifo expressed concerns about the growing tension and uncertainty within the oil and gas sector.
In response, Ojulari reassured stakeholders that the company remains focused on transparency, accountability, and transformative reforms to reposition the petroleum industry for national growth.
