Northeast Group Defends Mele Kyari, Denounces Calls For His Removal

The Concerned Citizens of North-East have criticized recent demands 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 statement released on Monday, the group dismissed the call as baseless and counterproductive, arguing that it diverts attention from critical issues affecting Nigeria’s refineries, particularly those in Port Harcourt and Warri.

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“The responsibility for ensuring the efficient operation of refineries primarily rests with the Federal Government, specifically the Minister of Petroleum Resources, who is also the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It is therefore unwarranted to single out Mele Kyari for challenges beyond his direct executive role,” the statement read.

The group praised Kyari’s leadership at NNPCL, noting his transformative efforts under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). They highlighted his strides in steering the company toward commercial viability, implementing groundbreaking reforms, and fostering transparency and accountability within the oil and gas sector.

“Kyari’s tenure has brought about historic changes that have repositioned NNPCL and the energy sector as a whole. His achievements should not be overshadowed by unfounded accusations,” they stated.

While acknowledging the right to free expression, the Concerned Citizens of North-East called on stakeholders to engage constructively with relevant authorities rather than promoting divisive rhetoric.

The group urged Nigerians to focus on collective efforts to address the nation’s energy challenges, advocating for sustainable solutions that benefit all citizens.

“We reaffirm our support for Mele Kyari’s leadership and call on the Federal Government and all Nigerians to work together in resolving the pressing issues in the energy sector. National unity and progress should guide our actions,” the statement concluded.

Their stance reflects growing support for Kyari’s leadership, with many emphasizing the need for collaboration to resolve the ongoing energy crisis.