N210trn audit: Senate gives NNPCL April 29 deadline, summons Kyari, others

The Nigerian Senate has fixed April 29, 2026, as the deadline for the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to appear before its Public Accounts Committee over N210 trillion flagged in audit reports.

The committee, led by Chairman Aliyu Wadada, said the appearance is necessary to address concerns raised in audit reports covering 2017 to 2023.

It directed NNPCL’s GCEO, Engr Bayo Ojulari, to appear alongside former GCEO Mele Kyari, former CFO Umar Ajia, Dr Bala Wunti, and the company’s external auditors.

The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Osita Izunaso and supported by Adams Oshiomhole.

Wadada said the committee found the company’s responses to 19 audit queries unsatisfactory, insisting that detailed breakdowns must be provided.

“This committee and, by extension, the Senate is not satisfied with blanket explanation given by NNPCL on N103 trillion which it said stands for liabilities because liabilities are in three components which are retention fee, legal fee and audit fee,” he said.

“Specific amount of money spent on each of the three components, must be stated and explained.

“Detailed explanation is also expected to be given on the N107 trillion NNPCL said it expended on JVC cash call and part of the money allegedly owed by some defunct banks whose names were not mentioned.”

He emphasised that the Senate expects full accountability, giving the oil company a final two-week window to respond.

“Consequently, it is hereby resolved, that the NNPCL is given an additional two weeks to unfailingly appear before this committee. The deadline for compliance is set for Wednesday, April 29, 2026,” he said.

Meanwhile, Senator Abdul Ningi urged the legislature to enforce its authority to compel attendance, warning against growing disregard for parliamentary summons.

“We must treat this matter with the utmost seriousness. The essence of democracy rests significantly on the strength and authority of the legislature,” he said.

“Unfortunately, in recent times, there appears to be a growing reluctance by individuals to honour invitations from the National Assembly, leaving members feeling helpless in compelling appearances before committees.”

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