NNPCL GCEO Bayo Ojulari Reportedly Resigns Amid Pressure from EFCC, SSS
Abuja – The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has reportedly stepped down from office following pressure from top security officials.
According to a report by Peoples Gazette, the development occurred on Friday during a meeting that allegedly involved EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede and Director-General of the State Security Service (SSS), Adeola Ajayi.
Sources familiar with the matter claimed that Mr. Ojulari was subjected to intense questioning, particularly regarding any connections with Olatimbo Ayinde — a British-Nigerian oil executive reportedly considered influential within the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Mr. Ojulari told us he didn’t know Olatimbo Ayinde,” one source who requested anonymity was quoted as saying by Peoples Gazette.
As of Saturday afternoon, there had been no official statement from either Mr. Ojulari or the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). EFCC spokesman Dele Oyewale also declined to comment.
Mr. Ojulari was appointed as NNPCL’s Group CEO by President Tinubu in April 2025, succeeding Mele Kyari. His appointment was seen as part of a broader effort to reposition the national oil company following its transition into a limited liability corporation.
Tenure Marked by Internal Tensions
During his brief stint, Mr. Ojulari’s tenure was marred by internal strife, including allegations of sabotage within the company’s executive ranks. Earlier reports suggested that the NNPCL had flagged suspicious activities aimed at undermining its leadership structure.
Friday’s reported resignation, if confirmed, could have significant implications for Nigeria’s oil sector, especially as the country grapples with lingering refinery challenges, rising fuel prices, and the push for transparency in state-owned enterprises.
This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
