The National Movement for Good Governance and Participatory Democracy has debunked claims that the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kolo Kyari, is eyeing a gubernatorial ticket in Borno State for 2027, with aspirations to run for president in 2031.
In a press statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emeka Tony, and National Secretary, Yusuf Hassan, the group dismissed the story as a “concocted narrative” by unidentified individuals seeking to tarnish Kyari’s image.
The group described the report as malicious, emphasizing that it is part of a continued campaign by certain elements upset by Kyari’s reappointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“These selfish and criminal elements are bent on destroying the NNPCL boss’s image for reasons best known to them,” the statement read.
The group further stated that Kyari’s reappointment and his leadership of the NNPCL have earned widespread commendation, despite attempts to malign him.
The group underscored Kyari’s commitment to his role, noting that he has shown accountability, transparency, and excellent performance despite ongoing challenges in the energy sector.
His efforts, they said, have been focused on resolving Nigeria’s fuel crisis, a critical issue affecting the nation’s economy.
Dismissing any speculation about Kyari’s political ambitions, the group assured Nigerians that the NNPCL boss remains dedicated to his duties and is not distracted by the political rumours.
“Kyari is not nursing any political ambition that could distract him from delivering on his assigned duties,” the group emphasized.
The statement warned those behind the false reports to desist, threatening to expose the individuals responsible for the smear campaign.
According to the group, these individuals have attempted to exploit Kyari financially, but their efforts have failed due to Kyari’s integrity.
The group also claimed that the story was an attempt to create discord between Kyari and other northern political figures, particularly in Borno State.
It urged Nigerians to disregard the reports, asserting that such political moves are not made clandestinely or through media speculation.
It added that Kyari’s contributions to Nigeria’s energy sector, particularly in building gas infrastructure such as the OB-3 Gas Pipeline, and AKK Gas Pipeline, and promoting the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline are proof of his commitment to national development.
The group called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and not fall for “old tricks” aimed at distracting from Kyari’s work.
