EXPOSÉ: Bayo Ojulari’s ₦5.7 Billion Consultancy Controversy – The Rot Deepens at NNPC

Just three months into his role, NNPC’s new GCEO, Bayo Ojulari, finds himself at the center of a significant controversy.

Instead of implementing the long-awaited reforms, his administration is increasingly marked by a lack of transparency and deep-rooted cronyism, seemingly surpassing the criticized tenure of Mele Kyari.

An ongoing investigation has revealed alarming developments: Ojulari has awarded a ₦5.7 billion consultancy contract via single-source procurement.

There was no bidding process, no tenders, and no transparency. This blatant disregard for proper protocols represents a severe breach of public trust and raises significant concerns about the integrity and motives of NNPC’s new leadership.

Various internal sources have indicated that this deal was arranged in secrecy, completely bypassing standard procurement protocols.

It is important to note that previous investigations have highlighted a close relationship between Ojulari and his long-time associate and benefactor, Abdullahi Bashir Haske, who is recognized as the son-in-law of a leading presidential candidate for 2027. Haske allegedly provided five private jets to transport NNPC board members and top executives to Kigali for an extravagant retreat, an event insiders claim was more about strengthening personal influence and political ties than genuine reform.

Ojulari proceeded with the ₦5.7 billion consultancy contract knowing fully well the contract lacks clear reform objectives, strategic value, and justification beyond catering to personal interests.

What Nigerians are observing is not reform; it is the entrenchment of patronage, secrecy, and self-serving behavior at the highest echelons of our national oil company.

This lack of transparency must come to an end.

We urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action. The ₦5.7 billion single-source consultancy contract must be suspended, thoroughly investigated, and those involved held accountable.

Nigeria cannot endure another phase of unrestrained corruption within its most crucial national asset. The future of our energy sector and public trust in its leadership is in jeopardy.

Yusuf El-Yakub
Investigative Journalist, Abuja