Kyari/Farouk: Lawmakers warn investigative committee against partiality

Fifty members of the House of Representatives have voiced their support for Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), and Farouk Ahmed, the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The lawmakers criticized the calls for their removal, labeling such demands as premature and counterproductive.

Led by Hon Billy Famous Osawaru of Edo State, the lawmakers condemned the calls for Kyari and Farouk’s dismissal while an investigation into the oil sector’s crisis is still ongoing.

They stated that this move goes against the established parliamentary culture of allowing a fair and thorough investigation before making any decisions.

Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon Philip Agbese, had previously urged President Bola Tinubu to dismiss Kyari, accusing him of stifling economic growth due to the ongoing crisis in the oil sector.

Agbese also called for the removal of Farouk Ahmed and other officials appointed by the previous administration.

Osawaru, in response, stated during a press briefing that it is inappropriate to demand the removal of government officials before an investigation concludes.

He stated the importance of granting all parties involved the right to a fair hearing and urged the investigative committee to remain impartial.

“Nigerians will recall that the hike in fuel prices and associated challenges are fundamental concerns.

“The House of Representatives, through its resolutions, mandated the joint committee on Midstream and Downstream Petroleum to investigate issues in the oil and gas sector.

“We are aware that the investigation is ongoing and that no final decision has been reached.

“However, our attention has been drawn to some media reports calling for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL and the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA while the above investigation is subsisting,” Osawaru stated.

Osawaru further urged Nigerians to be patient and law-abiding as they await the outcome of the investigation, assuring that a better Nigeria is the ultimate goal.

The lawmakers also addressed the ongoing nationwide protests, expressing concern for the well-being of Nigerians.

They commended the National Assembly, particularly the House of Representatives under the leadership of Right Honorable Tajudeen Abbas, for convening a youth dialogue aimed at easing tensions.

The lawmakers praised the protesters for their conduct and appealed for calm, urging all Nigerians to end the protests.

“Today, August 1, 2024, no fewer than 50 members of the House of Representatives who are deeply concerned about the ongoing protests have converged to further appraise the situation as it affects the well-being of Nigerians.

“We appeal for calm while imploring all Nigerians to bring the protests to an end,” Osawaru pleaded.