Public affairs analyst Awaal Dairu has defended Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari, dismissing criticisms leveled against him as based on false narratives from internal and external actors within the oil sector.

Dairu described Ojulari’s tenure as highly transparent, noting that the company has been publishing audited financial reports monthly since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in April. He said these reforms have strengthened investor confidence and contributed to fuel stability in Nigeria.

“The orchestrated attacks against Mr. Ojulari are a deliberate attempt to undermine the ongoing reforms at NNPC and threaten the stability of the nation’s energy sector,” Dairu said. He urged President Tinubu to disregard calls for Ojulari’s removal, emphasizing the GCEO’s tangible achievements in driving transparency and progress.

The statement comes after the Ijaw Youth Council publicly demanded Ojulari’s resignation. Dairu condemned the campaign, calling it a distraction from the substantial reforms being implemented under Ojulari’s leadership.

He stressed that supporting the ongoing initiatives at NNPCL is crucial for the success of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the long-term stability of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.