The Energy Transparency Initiative (ETI) has distanced itself from a statement made by individuals claiming to represent the organization, which criticized Hon. Philip Agbese, the Deputy Spokesperson of the Federal House of Representatives.
In a joint statement, the President and Secretary of ETI, Francis Nedu and Ismaila Bello, revealed that these individuals were expelled a while ago due to their involvement in fraudulent activities and other violations that contradicted the objectives of the group.
“We are surprised and disappointed that these individuals would continue to impersonate ETI and issue statements that do not align with our values and mission,” the statement read.
“Their actions are clearly an attempt to extort money and blackmail innocent parties, and we strongly condemn their behavior.
The leadership of ETI is aware that certain government agencies have allegedly provided substantial financial support to these impostors, amounting to as much as $500,000, in an effort to tarnish the reputation of Hon. Philip Agbese and other National Assembly members who are advocating for transparency in the oil and gas sector.”
The statement expressed solidarity with Hon. Agbese’s claims of deliberate efforts by the Nigerian Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to undermine the Dangote Refinery company.
The group commended Agbese for his exceptional leadership and courage in “exposing the truth” and applauded his commitment to protecting Nigerian entrepreneurs and promoting local businesses.
“Agbese’s dedication to serving the people and upholding principles of fairness and transparency is commendable,” the statement added.
“He has proven to be a true representative of the people, earning him the respect and admiration of many. We are proud to support and stand by him in this matter.
“NNPCL and NMDPRA have demonstrated a clear bias towards International Oil Companies (IOCs) and have consistently hindered the progress of Nigerian entrepreneurs.
“Their actions undermine the government’s efforts to promote local businesses and are detrimental to the nation.”
ETI, therefore, expressed support for the House of Representatives’ call for the resignation of the Chief Executive Officer of NMDPRA, Farouk Ahmed.
“Agbese’s reaffirmation of the House’s earlier request for the dismissal of the NMDPRA boss reflects the sentiment of many Nigerians who genuinely care about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement said.
“We believe that the removal of the NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari is also long overdue. ETI urges President Tinubu to take immediate action to address this issue and ensure that these regulatory agencies serve the interests of the nation, not just a select few.”
However, ETI stated that it has taken legal action against the impostors and has already involved law enforcement agencies to ensure they face the consequences of their actions.
“We will not tolerate any attempts to impersonate our organization or make false statements that harm our reputation,” the statement emphasized.
“We urge all stakeholders to remain vigilant and uphold principles of fairness and transparency. We will continue to monitor developments and ensure that all actions and policies are in line with the national interest, free from undue influence or partisan agendas.
