The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Federal Government to provide a detailed explanation for the sharp increase in spending on pipeline surveillance and energy security following the release of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPC Ltd.) audited 2024 financial statements.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said the figures contained in the audited accounts raise concerns about transparency, accountability, and value for money, especially as many Nigerians continue to face economic hardship.
According to the ADC, while pipeline surveillance contracts previously attracted public attention over amounts estimated at about ₦48 billion, the latest audited accounts show that NNPC recorded approximately ₦7.13 trillion under energy security for the 2024 financial year. The party claimed that when other fuel-related costs and receivables are included, the total rises to about ₦17.5 trillion.
The party argued that Nigerians deserve a clear explanation for the significant increase in expenditure and the benefits the country has gained from the spending.
While acknowledging that protecting Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure is an important national responsibility, the ADC maintained that security-related spending should remain open to public scrutiny and accountability.
The opposition party also referred to public reports linking Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a company associated with Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, to major pipeline surveillance contracts. It argued that recent political developments have made it even more important for the government to provide full transparency regarding the expenditure.
The ADC questioned whether funds allocated for pipeline surveillance were being used solely to safeguard national assets or whether there was any overlap between public spending and political activities.
The party therefore demanded a comprehensive breakdown of all funds spent on pipeline surveillance and energy security since President Bola Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023. It also requested the disclosure of contractors awarded the contracts, the amounts paid, the outcomes achieved, and whether independent value-for-money assessments had been conducted.
According to the ADC, Nigerians have a right to know whether the huge expenditure has translated into improved security, greater economic productivity, and better living conditions, particularly at a time when many households are struggling with rising living costs.
The party urged President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of NNPC Ltd., and the relevant committees of the National Assembly to publish a detailed account of the energy security expenditure, insisting that the focus should be on the results achieved with the funds.
