TheCable

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups has condemned an attempted blackmail against Mele Kyari, the group chief executive officer (GCEO) of NNPC Limited, and his management team.

The coalition group alleged that there is a campaign of calumny against the NNPC boss by a “self-styled whistle blower”.

The group further said the matter in question is currently before a federal high court, adding that due legal processes are already underway to address any legitimate concerns.

The CSOs said the move will not only undermine the rule of law but also compromise the integrity of the nation’s institutions.

“For the records, the national assembly, who is saddled with legitimate investigations of all MDAs, has investigated the phantom missing 48 million barrels of crude oil and thrashed it after thorough investigation that none of such happened,” the group said.

“It may interest you to know that it was the same George that ran to the national assembly to constitute a panel towards unravelling his petition. After the national assembly which he believed he would use to blackmail the NNPCL towards paying him the sum of $500,000 dismissed his petition and cleared NNPCL of such lies, he ran to the court.

“We want to emphasise that we, as a coalition, stand firmly against any form of corruption or misconduct within public and private institutions. However, the appropriate channels for addressing such concerns are through established legal processes, not through coercion, blackmail, or extortion.

“The Coalition of Civil Society Groups firmly believes in the principles of due process and the rule of law. Every citizen, regardless of their status or affiliation, is entitled to a fair and just legal proceeding. Mr. George’s actions, on the other hand, represent a blatant disregard for these principles and pose a threat to the stability and credibility of our legal system.

“It is essential for all citizens to trust and have confidence in our legal institutions. By attempting to subvert due process through blackmail and extortion undermines the very foundations of justice that our society relies upon.

“Furthermore, we urge the public to remain vigilant and discerning when faced with sensationalist claims or attempts to manipulate public opinion. It is our collective responsibility to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and due process.”