By EMMANUELLA ANOKAM

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) says its Group Chief Executive Officer, Malam Mele Kyari, is not responsible for the hike in prices of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as fuel.

Mr Olufemi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, of the company, said this on Tuesday while reacting to the protesters demand for the removal of Kyari.

Recall that some protesters, led by Civil Society Organisations had stormed the NNPC Ltd. Headquarters, in Abuja demanding Kyari’s resignation over issues surrounding fuel distribution and skyrocketing prices.

Reacting to the development, Soneye, said the protesters lacked understanding of the sector and information on the true state of things in Nigeria’s fuel supply chain.

“If they were informed, they would know that the GCEO is not responsible for the fuel price increase.

“In fact, the GCEO ensured that Nigerians had access to fuel at N620 per liter for over a year, even when the landing cost was above N1,100.

“The NNPC Ltd. does not import adulterated fuel. If anyone has evidence to the contrary, they should bring forward samples of any such fuel imported by NNPC Ltd.

“We have more pressing projects to accomplish to ensure energy security for our nation,” he said.

He said protests would deter or distract the NNPC from achieving the goal of implementing President Bola Tinubu’s roadmap for ensure energy security in Nigeria. (NAN)