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By Tracy Moses
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has dismissed a recent online article that accused the Commission of underhand dealings during the 2024 oil licensing bid round.
In a statement signed by the Chairman of the 2024 Bid Round Committee, Bashiru Indabawa the Commission described the allegations as “spurious” and “blatantly fabricated,” asserting that they were part of a calculated attempt to tarnish its reputation and sow discord.
The NUPRC stressed that it operates within the confines of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021 and adheres strictly to established regulatory frameworks.
The statement categorically rejected any suggestion of wrongdoing or hidden deals in the allocation of oil blocks, calling the claims “misleading” and designed to disrupt the integrity of the bidding process.
In its defence, the Commission outlined the transparency and rigor embedded in the 2024 oil bid round. It highlighted the comprehensive and inclusive framework that guided the process, emphasizing the thorough stakeholder engagement from the very beginning.
Public hearings, which were held at various stages, allowed key industry players—including International Oil Companies (IOCs), civil society organizations, and government agencies—to provide input and ensure that all perspectives were considered.
The NUPRC further emphasized that the 2024 bid round was the first of its kind in the history of Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector to fully integrate digital technology, ensuring an entirely transparent and automated selection process. The outcome was broadcast live for all stakeholders to witness, leaving no room for manipulation or undue influence.
The Commission also pointed out that the article, which remained heavily reliant on anonymous sources and vague references to “insiders” and “experts,” lacked credibility. It criticized the report for intentionally obscuring the identities of its so-called sources, casting doubt on the authenticity of the claims. The Commission also noted that the article failed to address the outcomes of any of the alleged investigations or legal proceedings mentioned, further undermining its credibility.
“Upon reviewing the article, it is clear that the intention was to damage the reputation of the NUPRC leadership, particularly Engr. Komolafe, by spreading unfounded rumors,” the statement continued. “The reliance on anonymous informants and unsubstantiated accusations suggests a deliberate effort to manipulate public opinion and create an atmosphere of distrust.”
The Commission was equally critical of the lack of journalistic integrity in the article, highlighting how it presented opinions rather than verified facts.
The omission of conclusive information, particularly regarding investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission (ICPC), painted a distorted picture of the reality surrounding the 2024 bid round.
NUPRC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in all its operations, urging stakeholders to reject the unfounded allegations and instead focus on the positive strides being made in the oil sector. It reiterated that the processes and frameworks established under the PIA are in full compliance with global best practices, ensuring that the nation’s oil resources are managed optimally.
In closing, the Commission stressed that the ongoing efforts to reform and optimize Nigeria’s oil and gas sector align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to boost national revenue. Despite the smear campaign orchestrated by certain elements, NUPRC’s leadership remains resolute in its dedication to driving the country’s oil industry towards greater efficiency and sustainability.
The NUPRC urged the public and media outlets to maintain high standards of accuracy and responsibility when reporting on sensitive matters that impact the nation’s economy, asserting that such baseless claims only serve to create unnecessary controversy. It called for a focus on the progress being made in the sector, which is being shaped by transparent, well-regulated practices under the framework of the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021.
As the Commission continues to implement President Tinubu’s reform agenda, it reassured all stakeholders that its focus remains on the effective and transparent regulation of the Nigerian oil industry, ensuring that all actions align with the best interests of the nation and its people.