OBASANJO BLASTS NNPCL OVER “DISRESPECTFUL” INVITATION

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) for its recent invitation, calling it disrespectful. The invitation, extended through the corporation’s spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, was for Obasanjo to tour the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.

According to Obasanjo’s media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, the invitation was “an absolute insult” and questioned the propriety of extending an invitation to a former president through a public statement. Akinyemi stated that the invitation should have been made through a formal letter or direct communication, rather than a public announcement.

The controversy surrounding the invitation is linked to Obasanjo’s previous comments on the mismanagement of Nigeria’s refineries. He had expressed frustration over the lack of progress in rehabilitating the refineries, despite significant investments since 2007. Obasanjo’s criticism of the NNPCL’s management of the refineries has sparked a heated debate, with some accusing him of meddling in the affairs of the corporation.

In response to the invitation, Obasanjo’s aide stated that the former president would not be available for the tour, citing his busy schedule. The aide also emphasized that Obasanjo’s comments on the refineries were made in good faith, with the intention of promoting transparency and accountability in the management of the country’s resources.

The NNPCL has yet to respond to Obasanjo’s criticism, but the controversy has sparked a wider debate about the management of Nigeria’s oil and gas resources. The incident has also raised questions about the relationship between the NNPCL and former heads of state, with some calling for greater respect and protocol in dealing with elder statesmen.

As the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the NNPCL will respond to Obasanjo’s criticism. One thing is certain, however: the debate over the management of Nigeria’s refineries and oil resources will continue to be a contentious issue in the days ahead.