NNPCL's Absence from Senate Hearings Criticized by Onyesoh

Allwell Onyesoh, the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources (Upstream), condemned the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for its repeated failure to honor invitations to legislative hearings. He stated that NNPCL's absence undermines the Senate's constitutional oversight responsibilities.

During a meeting with journalists, Onyesoh expressed concern that the absence of NNPCL's top management sends a negative signal regarding the company's willingness to submit to public accountability. He criticized the excuses provided by NNPCL officials, which included travel commitments, and emphasized that no government agency is above legislative scrutiny.

Onyesoh also highlighted the ongoing investigation into crude oil theft and proposed amendments to Nigeria's petroleum laws to strengthen the regulatory framework governing the oil and gas industry. He called for greater transparency and accountability in the sector, particularly for oil-producing communities that continue to suffer from underdevelopment despite contributing significantly to the nation's oil wealth.