The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has dismissed claims that President Bola Tinubu interferes in its operations.

According to Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, the company’s decisions are “guided strictly by merit, business requirements, and expertise.”

Soneye’s statement on Saturday was in response to an article by Prof. Farooq Kperogi, which alleged that Tinubu was orchestrating a “Yorubacentric take-over” of the NNPCL.

However, Soneye maintained that “employment, promotions, appointments, and movements of business leaders at the NNPC are not influenced by ethnicity, tribe, religion, or political affiliation.”

READ ALSO: Peter Obi Hails NNPC Over Port Harcourt Refinery, Seeks Transparency In Fuel Production 

The NNPCL spokesman emphasized that the company is a professional organization with a diverse leadership lineup, including individuals from various parts of the world.

He also highlighted the company’s achievements under the leadership of Mele Kyari, including groundbreaking advancements in exploration, production, and global partnerships.

Soneye praised President Tinubu’s approach, saying it has “empowered institutions like the NNPC to operate independently while fostering a conducive environment for growth and innovation.”

According to him, Tinubu’s reforms have significantly improved the sector, surpassing the achievements of many of his predecessors.