President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reportedly displeased with the conduct of the Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, barely four months after his appointment.
Insider sources suggest that the President is considering Ojulari’s removal following financial transactions allegedly linked to AA&R Investment Group—a company connected to Abdullahi Bashir-Haske, who is married to the daughter of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
According to The Cable, millions of dollars were allegedly funneled into the firm under questionable circumstances. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is said to be investigating these transactions, which have triggered concerns about possible large-scale money laundering and indirect funding of opposition interests.
Ojulari, who was appointed in April 2025, reportedly restored business privileges to Bashir-Haske that had been revoked during the tenure of his predecessor, Mele Kyari. This move raised eyebrows within political and security circles, particularly due to Bashir-Haske's known political affiliations.
Before joining NNPC, Ojulari had held prominent roles in the oil and gas industry, including serving as Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Chairman of BAT Advisory & Energy, where he advised on a $2 billion Shell asset acquisition.
However, his perceived closeness to politically exposed persons and the reversal of Kyari-era restrictions have reportedly drawn President Tinubu's ire. The administration, sources say, feels blindsided and is contemplating a quiet but decisive exit plan for Ojulari to avoid public embarrassment.
While no official statement has been made, the tension underscores the administration's growing intolerance for internal moves seen as politically risky or potentially undermining.
If the dismissal is effected, it would mark a significant shake-up in the petroleum sector and send a strong signal about the President’s approach to political loyalty and institutional accountability.
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