Atiku Abubakar Demands Independent Probe into N17.5 Trillion Pipeline Security Spending
Former Vice President and presidential aspirant, Atiku Abubakar, has called for an independent investigation into the reported ₦17.5 trillion spent by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on pipeline security and related expenditures in 2024.
The former vice president described the spending as “opaque” and demanded full transparency and accountability from the federal government.
According to NNPCL’s audited financial statements, the expenditures included ₦7.13 trillion on energy‑security costs to maintain stable petrol prices and ₦8.67 trillion categorized as “under‑recovery” — the difference between actual import and landing costs of petrol versus the regulated pump price sold to consumers.
Additional amounts reportedly covered pipeline surveillance, repairs, and security-related operations.
Atiku criticized the massive outlay, noting that it rivals the total funds spent on fuel subsidy over the past 12 years, while millions of Nigerians continue to struggle with high fuel prices and inflation.
He described the spending pattern as tantamount to “grand larceny dressed as public expenditure,” asserting that it raises serious questions about transparency, contract awards, and effective utilization of public funds.
In his statement, Atiku demanded that the government:
• Publish a detailed list of companies awarded pipeline‑security and related contracts.
• Disclose the scope, deliverables, and duration of each contract.
• Subject the entire ₦17.5 trillion expenditure to an independent forensic audit.
• Halt further disbursements until accountability is established.
• Explain how such expenditures align with national priorities, particularly amid economic hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians.
The former vice president’s call for scrutiny comes amid growing concerns over opacity and alleged cronyism in public-sector contracts.
Analysts note that while the funds are labeled as pipeline security and under-recovery costs, there is limited public information on the actual delivery of services or tangible impact on pipeline safety, petrol supply, or infrastructure maintenance.
Public reaction to the spending has been largely critical, with many questioning how such massive resources were expended without clear oversight or measurable outcomes.
Security and governance experts have echoed Atiku’s demand for an independent probe, emphasizing that accountability is crucial to restoring public trust and ensuring effective management of Nigeria’s oil sector.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Presidency or NNPCL regarding Atiku’s demands or the reported expenditures. Observers note that the situation may intensify scrutiny of oil-sector governance and could shape ongoing debates about transparency, subsidy management, and public financial accountability in Nigeria.
