OilWatch Nigeria (OWN), Workers’ Rights Alliance (WRA), and Concerned Citizens rallied at the EFCC Headquarters in Abuja, showering praise on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive sacking of Bayo Ojulari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).
The group urged the EFCC to expedite his arrest and prosecution over a ₦34.65 billion corruption scandal.
“We wholeheartedly commend President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Removing Ojulari is a bold step toward cleansing our oil sector,” declared Emmanuel Ekpeyong of OilWatch Nigeria.
“His action restores faith in governance, but justice must be complete with Ojulari’s prosecution.”
The coalition also hailed the EFCC and security agencies for their proactive measures, including seizing Ojulari’s passports and issuing a red alert to prevent his escape.
“The EFCC’s vigilance is exemplary. Their swift action ensures Ojulari cannot flee accountability,” said Danladi Usman of the Workers’ Rights Alliance. “We applaud their dedication to upholding the rule of law.”
Ojulari’s alleged crimes, including a $21 million (₦34.65 billion) scandal, attempts to sell the Port Harcourt Refinery at scrap value, and diverting crude oil to cronies, were condemned as a betrayal of Nigeria’s trust.
“These atrocities damaged our economy and investor confidence. President Tinubu’s action signals a new era of transparency,” said Babatunde Anifowoshe of Concerned Citizens.
To ensure justice, the coalition announced plans to submit letters to the US Embassy, EU Delegation, and UK High Commission by August 8, 2025, requesting travel bans on Ojulari and associates like Abdullahi Bashir Haske and Abdul-Muminu Yakubu Maishanu.
They also urged Tinubu to order the immediate reopening of the Port Harcourt Refinery to boost energy security and create jobs.
“President Tinubu and the EFCC have set a powerful precedent. We stand with them to ensure Ojulari faces justice for robbing Nigerians,” Ekpeyong affirmed. The coalition’s rally marks a unified call for accountability, signaling hope for a transparent oil sector.