The Nigeria National Corporation Limited (NNPCL) has expressed its support for the resolution of the House of Representatives to investigate the alleged payment of N20 billion to “ghost consultants.” In a statement issued by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPCL, Garba Deen Muhammad, the company refuted the allegation, which was first published without evidence by an online platform.
According to Muhammad, the NNPC Ltd under the current Board and Management has instituted a culture of transparency that includes making its annual Audited Financial Statements (AFS) public. He added that the NNPC Ltd welcomes the resolution of the House of Representatives to investigate the allegation and is confident that any investigation into the false claim will vindicate the company.
The statement further explained that the NNPC Ltd is committed to the highest standards of corporate governance and operates in line with the laws and regulations of the land. It urged the public to disregard any unfounded claims about the company and its operations.
The allegation of the payment of N20 billion to ghost consultants has been a topic of controversy for some time now. The House of Representatives had earlier called for an investigation into the matter, alleging that the payment was made without due process. The NNPC Ltd had denied the allegation, stating that it had not paid any such sum to consultants.
The company has now reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in all its operations, and called on all stakeholders to support its efforts to maintain the highest standards of corporate governance. It also assured the public that it will continue to operate in line with best practices and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
The NNPC Ltd expressed its appreciation to the House of Representatives for its resolution to investigate the matter, stating that it is confident that the investigation will put an end to all speculations concerning the issue. The company also called on the public to disregard any unfounded claims and assured them of its commitment to the highest standards of corporate governance