According to Independent Nigeria, Chief Olabode George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on the Federal Government to clarify the current state of the oil sector in Nigeria. Addressing a press briefing in his Lagos office on Thursday, George expressed concern over the uncertainty surrounding the continuation of subsidies on petroleum products......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
He urged the government to provide clear and accurate information to the public to dispel the prevailing confusion.
George specifically requested that the government explain whether it is still subsidizing petroleum products or not, highlighting the mixed reports that have left many Nigerians unsure about the situation.
According to George, transparency is essential to ensure that citizens are fully informed about the policies affecting the nation’s most vital sector. The lack of clear communication, he argued, undermines public trust and could lead to further economic instability.
The Atona Oodua of Yorubaland also raised concerns about a recent claim made by business magnate Aliko Dangote.
According to Dangote, he paid $100 million to the Lagos State government to acquire land in Lekki, where his refinery is currently situated. George insisted that the government must clarify this transaction, particularly regarding who benefited from the payment.
He noted that landowners in Lekki have expressed dissatisfaction, believing their land was unjustly taken from them.
George further criticized the Federal Government’s decision to sell crude oil to Dangote’s refinery in Naira rather than in foreign currency.
He warned that this policy could severely damage the Nigerian economy by depleting the nation’s foreign reserves. George argued that crude oil is a critical source of foreign income for the government, and selling it locally in Naira would undermine the country’s financial stability.
In addition to these concerns, George condemned the stance of the Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC), Mele Kyari. He expressed disappointment that Kyari has chosen not to address the public about these pressing issues. George found Kyari’s recent statement that he would speak “at the right time” particularly troubling, suggesting that the delay in communication could exacerbate the already tense situation.
He said: “What I think went on last week is just a tip of the iceberg, the truth will come out one day.
“My perception of the oil sector of our country is very disappointing, who is the minister of petroleum? Who is the chairman of NNPC?
“Kyari made a statement on Wednesday that is very worrisome. He said at the right time he would talk. Which is the right time? Rome is burning, the Emperor is sleeping, which other right time will he talk.”
