Presidency Gives Fresh Directive To Petroleum Ministry On NUPRC Audit

The Presidency has issued a directive to the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, urging the suspension of its efforts to establish a committee tasked with auditing the financial accounts of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

A letter dated August 1 and labeled SH/COS/24/A/28, signed by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, was addressed to the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, communicating the directive. The letter conveyed that the constitution of the audit committee has been submitted to the Honourable Attorney General of the Federation (HAGF) for a comprehensive review to ascertain the constitutional, statutory, and administrative implications of such an action.

The directive emerged amidst ongoing internal conflicts between the management of the NUPRC and its workforce. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) had earlier protested poor welfare and working conditions, calling for the removal of Gbenga Komolafe, the commission’s chief executive, over alleged financial mismanagement.

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PENGASSAN had raised several concerns, including non-remittance of pensions, subpar work environments, inadequate tools, outstanding allowances, and more. The NUPRC defended itself against these allegations, asserting that they were intended to discredit the commission.

The NUPRC emphasized that its actions had adhered to established procedures, regulatory compliance, and the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021. The commission challenged the unions and critics to provide evidence to substantiate their claims regarding financial transactions and allegations of misappropriation.

In light of these ongoing disputes and to facilitate a thorough legal review, the Presidency has directed the suspension of the audit committee’s activities until a comprehensive assessment by the HAGF is conducted.