A socio-cultural group, Ndigbo Youths Movement Worldwide (NYMW), has alleged a covert plot to target the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, for his stance in the ongoing dispute between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Dangote Group.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Israel Akaego, and Secretary, Amaka Ukadike, the group pointed fingers at NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, and other collaborators within the National Assembly, accusing them of orchestrating an attack on Ugochinyere with a view to mounting a campaign of intimidation and calumny against him. The group alleged that the move is being bankrolled by Mele Kyari.
According to NYMW, the lawmaker is being targeted for defending the interests of Nigerians in the oil sector, particularly through his support for the Dangote Refinery.
The group expressed concern over attempts to discredit Ugochinyere, citing the recent creation of a joint Senate committee, headed by Senate Leader Bamidele Opeyemi, as part of the alleged plot.
The group believes this is an effort to weaken Ugochinyere, who has been outspoken in calling for Kyari’s removal over what he described as poor management of NNPCL.
The statement added that some moves have been orchestrated by some powerful individuals within the corridors of power to manipulate the investigative process and even discredit Ugochinyere.
It noted “it is deeply concerning to witness the recent witch-hunt against a dedicated lawmaker who has taken a bold stand in defense of the masses, challenging the unchecked powers of the oil industry cabals,” the statement read.
“At a time when Nigerians are grappling with rising fuel prices, inflation, and economic pressure from a few powerful players, we need voices that prioritize the public interest over corporate elites.”
The group emphasized that Ugochinyere’s efforts have disrupted the status quo, leading to attempts to silence him through intimidation and character assassination.
NYMW vowed to resist any further moves to frame the lawmaker and called on Nigerians to support those advocating for transparency and fairness in the oil sector.
“This is not just about one lawmaker; it’s about the future of our oil industry and the millions of lives affected by its governance. The witch-hunt must stop now, or we risk losing the few voices still standing up for the common man in the face of corporate greed and corruption,” the group stated.
The group urged the public to rally behind lawmakers like Ugochinyere who are willing to fight for national interests and resist undue pressure from powerful individuals within the oil industry.
