The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has called for the immediate dismiss of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Minister of state, Petroleum, Hinenken Lokobiri over the recent hike in the price of fuel which has caused untold hardship on Nigerians.
The council warned that failure to act swiftly might lead to further unrest in the region, adding that the council would be embarking on Niger Delta protest for 14 days after due consultation with Pa Edwin Clark and other stakeholders who has the interest of the ijaw man at heart.
The President of IYC, Dr. Theophilus Alaye in a statement issued Monday said the actions of Kyari and the Lokpobri have contributed to the ongoing economic challenges, which are most felt in oil-producing regions of the Niger Delta.
He was of the opinion that their inability to effectively manage the nation’s oil resources has led to a ripple effect of hardship, including high fuel prices, scarcity of petroleum products, and a strain on the national economy.
Alaye alleged that the duo were politicising the operations of the oil and gas sector, resulting in severe national hardship for Nigerians.
He noted that the politicisation of oil revenues and contracts has exacerbated the economic crisis, leaving citizens grappling with inflated prices of essential commodities and an overall decline in living standards.
The IYC President stressed that Lokpobri and Kyari have failed in their responsibilities to ensure transparency and accountability in the oil sector.
Alaye added: “The mismanagement and political maneuvering within the oil sector are evident. The decisions made by these key figures are not in the best interest of the people but rather serve political interests that further marginalise the already struggling regions, especially the Niger Delta, which bears the brunt of oil exploration.
“Their continuous stay in office is a disservice to the nation. We demand that the President take decisive action by removing these individuals from their positions to restore confidence in the oil sector and alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
“The call for their dismissal comes at a time when the nation is grappling with an economic downturn, exacerbated by global oil price fluctuations, mismanagement, and allegations of corruption within the sector.”