Hundreds of Niger Delta youths blockaded the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, halting operations at the towers in a bold protest against alleged corruption and mismanagement.
Organized by the Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities Youth Leaders Forum, the demonstrators shut down Herbert Macaulay Way, demanding the immediate removal of Group Chief Executive Officer Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari and the appointment of a Niger Delta indigene to lead the oil giant.
Brandishing placards with messages like "Ojulari Must Go!" and "Fix Our Refineries!", the protesters accused Ojulari of diverting $21 million, sabotaging the Port Harcourt Refinery, and illegally dismissing over 400 workers, mostly from their region.
"The Niger Delta powers Nigeria’s economy, yet we’re sidelined while our resources are looted," a protester told Channels Television, as music from a truck-mounted sound system rallied the crowd.Starting at dawn, the protest disrupted traffic and drew a heavy police presence, though it remained peaceful.
Security forces redirected vehicles to one lane, while NNPCL staff struggled to enter the towers.
After talks with a representative of Petroleum Minister Heineken Lokpobiri, the youths slightly adjusted their blockade but vowed to stay until their demands are met.
This action follows a seven-day ultimatum issued on August 22, calling for Ojulari’s prosecution by the EFCC.
It builds on 2024 protests against former GCEO Mele Kyari, reflecting growing frustration in the Niger Delta, where communities endure poverty and pollution despite their oil wealth.
Pro-Ojulari groups, like the Niger Delta Development Agenda, dismissed the claims as unfounded, citing his work to boost oil production.
The protesters remain steadfast, pledging to occupy the towers until action is taken.
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