By Divine Sam.
The ongoing crisis in Nigeria’s oil sector has prompted increasing calls for President Bola Tinubu to step down as Minister of Petroleum. Despite the removal of fuel subsidies coinciding with his assumption of office, citizens have seen little improvement in sector stability.
Recent cabinet changes included the dismissal of five ministers deemed underperforming, but stakeholders still demand a more comprehensive overhaul, including Tinubu’s resignation. Criticism has centered on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) repeated failures to activate local refineries, which has exacerbated public dissatisfaction and calls for transparency.
Former Voice of Nigeria DG Osita Okechukwu argued that Tinubu’s dual role prevents effective oversight and accountability in the ministry. He highlighted the severe economic repercussions stemming from the inefficiency of the refineries, urging the president to relinquish his ministerial post to enhance scrutiny.
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also criticized the dual appointment, asserting that it undermines governance and accountability. They called for a significant reshuffle, noting that the minor cabinet changes made were insufficient.
Conversely, some analysts believe that maintaining the presidency and the ministerial role could be strategically beneficial, referencing past precedents. However, Tinubu’s administration faces mounting pressure to address the pervasive issues in the oil sector, which many view as a barrier to progress and economic stability in the country.