Miriam Onuoha, a member of the House of Representatives representing Isiala Mbano/Onuimo/Okigwe Federal Constituency in Imo State, has issued a stern warning to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. She criticized the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for his remarks regarding the Oando acquisition of AGIP/ENI and OVH assets, asserting that she will not allow herself to be used as a tool for political witch-hunt, blackmail, or intimidation.
Onuoha, who chaired the investigation into the acquisitions, responded sharply to Atiku’s comments, which questioned the federal government’s approval process. Atiku, through his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, had called for an explanation as to why Oando Plc, owned by a relative of President Bola Tinubu, received swift approval to purchase AGIP and ENI's onshore assets, while other transactions, such as the Shell/Renaissance deal and the Mobil/Seplat deal, faced delays.
In her statement on Monday, the Imo lawmaker defended the actions of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) under the leadership of Mele Kyari, praising the strides made by the company and stressing the importance of keeping the oil and gas sector free from political manipulation.
Onuoha clarified that she had initiated a motion to investigate alleged irregularities and corruption within NNPC Retail Limited and the acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing. This motion was driven by a petition from NNPC staff who were concerned about their job security following the OVH acquisition and the subsequent relocation of NNPC Retail Limited to Lagos.
"I want to make it clear that the Committee invited the Group CEO of NNPC, Mallam Mele Kyari, along with the head of NNPC Retail Limited and other key management staff. They provided detailed explanations for the OVH acquisition and the decision to relocate to Lagos, which was intended to improve market access," Onuoha stated.
She further explained that the Committee also engaged with the petitioning staff members, addressing their concerns through a transparent investigation and ensuring their fears were alleviated.
Onuoha concluded by reaffirming her commitment to legislative oversight, stating, "As a legislator, I will continue to hold the Executive accountable. However, I will not allow myself to be manipulated into becoming a tool for witch-hunt, blackmail, or intimidation. I refuse to be a pawn in any opposition attempt to undermine the good work of President Bola Tinubu, who is also the Minister of Petroleum Resources."
