In response to recent reports suggesting an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) into alleged abuses of office and misappropriation of funds by former senior officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), a coalition of Nigerian youth organizations has called for an urgent meeting.
The youth groups, including the Arewa Consultative Youth Movement, Ohanaeze Ndi Igbo Youth Movement, Middle Belt Youth Forum, Oduduwa Youths, and South-South Youths, are set to take a firm position on what they describe as a politically motivated attempt to tarnish the reputation of Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPCL.
The youth organizations, which are collectively known as the Ethnic Youth Leaders Council of Nigeria, stated that the meeting, to be hosted by the Arewa Youths in Kaduna, will culminate in an international press conference in Enugu.
The press conference, expected to be broadcast live on television stations across the country, will communicate the youths’ stance on the EFCC’s actions and the ongoing public protests against Kyari.
A letter from the EFCC titled “Investigation Activities Request for Information” has reportedly requested details on the emoluments and allowances of NNPCL officials, including those who have since retired. This move is seen by the youth leaders as part of a broader effort to probe Kyari and other former officials for alleged corruption.However, the youth bodies assert that these efforts are politically motivated and are aimed at discrediting Kyari’s legacy.
The groups expressed shock at the investigation, especially considering Kyari’s achievements in the oil sector, such as revitalizing Nigeria’s refineries and supporting the Dangote Petroleum Chemicals project. They questioned why Kyari, who contributed significantly to the country’s oil production capacity, should be subject to what they believe is a politically charged smear campaign.
Comrade Ananukwa Edu, a spokesperson for the youth council, emphasized the determination of the youth leaders to resist the smear campaign, stating that legal actions would be pursued to halt the probe and protests.
“This is unacceptable. We will do everything within the law to protect the integrity of Mele Kyari, who has served Nigeria diligently. His contributions to the nation should not be undermined by political vendetta,” Edu added.
The youth leaders also highlighted that Kyari had previously expressed his willingness to account for his actions in public service, but insisted that such accountability should not be tainted by malicious motives.
The statement called on the media and the public to be cautious about the spread of unverified information and to avoid being misled by politically driven agendas.
THE GUARDIAN
