CSOs Urged to Use Evidence for Accountability in Nigeria

Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Nigeria have been urged to adopt an evidence-based approach to hold public institutions accountable. This call follows demands for changes in leadership at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

Dr. Olayemi Isaac, Executive Director of the Good Governance Index, stated that calls for the removal of NNPCL's Group Managing Director, Bayo Ojulari, and NUPRC's boss, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, should not be based on unsubstantiated allegations. He emphasized the importance of stronger oversight and continuous institutional accountability.

Isaac highlighted the recent licensing round by NUPRC, which attracted 143 companies submitting 200 bids for 37 oil and gas blocks, as evidence of Nigeria's potential for a competitive investment environment. He noted that the process demonstrated transparency and a commitment to managing petroleum resources effectively.

Isaac also pointed out that scrutiny of NNPCL's N7.13 trillion energy security expenditure should be guided by audited accounts and legal frameworks.