Mahdi Shehu, a human rights activist, has responded to a statement made by Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan Ojuluri, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), in which Ojuluri claimed to be “under attack.” The statement, reported by Media Talk Africa on August 28, 2025, has sparked debate on social media and in the political sphere.
Ojuluri made the remark while receiving a delegation from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) at the company’s Abuja headquarters. In response, Shehu posted a statement on his verified X handle, suggesting that Ojuluri is complicit in the system he claims is targeting him. Shehu’s comment reflects the public’s ongoing frustration with alleged corruption, mismanagement, and lack of accountability in the oil sector.
The specifics of Ojuluri’s alleged “attack” have not been disclosed, but analysts believe his statement may indicate internal power struggles or external pressures related to reforms in the oil and gas industry. Shehu’s intervention has intensified the conversation, placing Ojuluri and the NNPCL under increased scrutiny.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has been a subject of interest in recent times, with various stakeholders calling for greater transparency and accountability in the oil sector. The company’s leadership has faced criticism over its handling of the industry, with some accusing it of mismanagement and corruption.
The current situation has raised questions about the state of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria, with many calling for reforms to address the alleged corruption and mismanagement. As the conversation continues, it remains to be seen how the NNPCL and its leadership will respond to the growing criticism and scrutiny.
The oil and gas industry is a critical sector in Nigeria’s economy, and any developments in this area are likely to have significant implications for the country. As such, the situation surrounding Ojuluri’s statement and Shehu’s response will be closely watched by stakeholders and observers alike.