Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has reportedly been forced to step down from his position following intense pressure from top government officials.

According to a report by Peoples Gazette, Ojulari was allegedly confronted on Friday by Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and Adeola Ajayi, Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS). Sources claim the encounter led to Ojulari being compelled to sign a resignation letter against his will.

Insiders revealed that Ojulari was repeatedly questioned over his alleged ties to Olatimbo Ayinde, a British-Nigerian oil mogul who is said to wield considerable influence in President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The NNPCL boss reportedly denied having any relationship or dealings with her.

Despite growing public interest in the situation, Ojulari has yet to issue a statement. Similarly, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale has not responded to inquiries regarding the incident.

This controversy comes just months after President Tinubu appointed Ojulari in April 2025, a move initially welcomed as part of a broader effort to reform the country’s oil sector. However, recent tensions within the NNPCL leadership, including allegations of sabotage, have cast a shadow over the company’s internal stability.

With no official confirmation from the presidency or the NNPCL as of Saturday, questions remain over what prompted the alleged forced resignation and whether deeper political or economic interests are at play.