The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engineer Bayo Ojulari, has failed to appear before the Senate Committee on Public Accounts for the fourth time, sparking outrage among committee members.
The committee, chaired by Sen. Aliyu Wadada Ahmed, had invited Ojulari to explain why N210 trillion remained unaccounted for in the audit reports from 2017 to 2023.
Despite previous invitations, Ojulari’s absence on Tuesday was attributed to a sudden presidential invitation, according to the company’s Chief Financial Officer, Dapo Segun.
Senator Ahmed expressed frustration over Ojulari’s repeated absence, stating that the committee will not tolerate further disregard for its authority and the committee has given Ojulari an ultimatum to appear before them unfailingly on Wednesday by 3:00 pm prompt.
Failure to comply, according to the senators may lead to further action, given the committee’s mandate to investigate financial irregularities.
Senator Ahmed, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, is known for his commitment to fiscal reform and transparency.
He has been at the forefront of efforts to ensure accountability in government spending and has previously led initiatives to modernize Nigeria’s public auditing systems.
The committee’s investigation into NNPCL’s financial dealings aims to uncover the truth behind the alleged unaccounted funds and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
With the ultimatum issued, Ojulari’s appearance is now eagerly awaited, and the outcome may have significant implications for the NNPCL and Nigeria’s oil industry.
