Arewa Stakeholders Demand Resignation Of NNPCL Boss, Mele Kyari After Attaining Mandatory Retirement Age, Vow To Shut Abuja Office
The Arewa Accountability Network has called for the immediate resignation of Mele Kolo Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), citing his attainment of the mandatory retirement age. In a statement signed by its coordinator, Samuel Audu, the group argued that Kyari, who recently turned 60, should step down in line with Nigeria’s civil service policy, which mandates retirement at either 60 years of age or after 35 years of service—whichever
February 3, 2025
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The group further criticised Kyari’s leadership of NNPCL, particularly regarding fuel supply challenges and pricing policies, which they claim had worsened economic hardship for Nigerians.
The Arewa Accountability Network has called for the immediate resignation of Mele Kolo Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), citing his attainment of the mandatory retirement age.
In a statement signed by its coordinator, Samuel Audu, the group argued that Kyari, who recently turned 60, should step down in line with Nigeria’s civil service policy, which mandates retirement at either 60 years of age or after 35 years of service—whichever comes first.
The group further criticised Kyari’s leadership of NNPCL, particularly regarding fuel supply challenges and pricing policies, which they claim had worsened economic hardship for Nigerians.
They alleged that fuel queues had returned across the country despite the high cost of petrol, causing untold suffering to citizens.
Audu urged the Nigerian government to enforce civil service regulations and ensure a leadership transition at the NNPCL.
“It is crucial to acknowledge that the rules governing the civil service are designed not only to foster order within public institutions but also to ensure a continuous injection of fresh ideas and leadership when necessary,” the letter stated.
The Arewa group argued that Kyari’s continued leadership undermined the integrity and credibility of the civil service system.
They also criticised his administration’s handling of fuel availability and pricing, which had led to economic hardship for Nigerians.
“Fuel queues have become a common sight across the nation, even with the elevated prices for these essential resources. As the head of the NNPCL, it is your responsibility to ensure that the operation and distribution of fuel meet the needs of Nigerians.
“Regrettably, your administration has undoubtedly failed in this regard, leading to pervasive dissatisfaction and economic strain on our citizens.”
The group questioned the timing of Kyari’s recent announcement regarding the commencement of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.
They suggested that the announcement may be a distraction from his impending resignation.
“In light of your pending retirement, the recent announcement regarding the commencement of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries raises eyebrows.
“This seems to be a calculated move aimed not at genuinely addressing the challenges of the Nigerian oil sector but rather as a distraction from the reality of your impending resignation and the continued struggles faced by your tenure.
The coordinator urged Kyari to resign with immediate effect, citing the need to respect the civil service rules and restore the faith of Nigerians in their governing institutions.
“We implore you to reflect on the implications of your continued leadership. Your lengthy service has been marked by strained relationships with both citizens and other stakeholders.
“Therefore, it is only prudent and dignified for you to step down from your position as GCEO of NNPCL, respecting the healthy boundaries set forth in the civil service mandate,” he said.
They warned that if Kyari failed to resign, they would mobilise and shut down the NNPCL towers.
“Should you choose not to resign, we will rally together as members of the Arewa Accountability Network to take a stand for what is right.
“We will have no choice but to mobilise and shut down the NNPCL Towers until the sanctity of our civil service rules is maintained,” Audu added.
