A large crowd of activists flooded Abuja’s Three Arms Zone on Tuesday, demanding sweeping reforms in the oil sector.
Organized by the APC Solidarity and Development Forum and comprising youth and civil society organizations, the protesters expressed their frustration over soaring fuel prices, persistent fuel scarcity, and the intensifying economic hardship affecting Nigerians.
Speaking to journalists during the protest held near the National Assembly Complex, group leaders Comrade Kabir Matazu and Danielsi Momoh described the ongoing fuel crisis as a reflection of systemic failures within the industry.
In a letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, they argued that despite repeated assurances from authorities, shortages and high prices continue to persist.
According to the protesters, these hardships have impacted citizens and eroding public trust in the government’s management of oil resources.
The protesters highlighted the lack of operational local refineries, despite a $4 billion government investment, as a significant oversight and management failure.
The protesters criticized Kyari’s management for failing to operationalize local refineries, despite the Federal Government’s $4 billion investment.
“Kyari’s continued leadership is detrimental to NNPCL and the Nigerian populace. It is time for new leadership that prioritizes accountability and efficiency,” the protesters said.
“We demand a clear roadmap for the revitalization and operationalization of our local refineries to ensure self-sufficiency in petroleum products and reduce reliance on imports.
“The National Assembly must enact and enforce strict regulations to prevent the importation of substandard petroleum products, protecting the health and safety of Nigerians.
“We urge the President to appoint a qualified individual who possesses the integrity and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of the oil sector and restore public confidence.
“We call for the immediate establishment of a committee to investigate the ongoing allegations of sleaze and fraud under Mr. Kyari’s leadership. Furthermore, we demand that he be held accountable for any misconduct and handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for prosecution.
“As the representatives of the people, the National Assembly must rise to the occasion and fast. Mele Kyari should be gotten rid of with dispatch. And NNPCL should be repositioned for optimal productivity, transparency and accountability.”
