Senator Adams Oshiomhole has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of harboring a personal interest in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited and engaging in nepotism regarding staff recruitment. The allegation came after Oshiomhole claimed that former NNPC Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari employed Akpabio's daughter in a lucrative position for which she likely lacked the necessary qualifications.
Oshiomhole's Defense of His Comments
Speaking on Seun Okinbaloye's political podcast 'Mic On' on Saturday, June 13, 2026, the lawmaker representing Edo North senatorial district in the 10th National Assembly defended his earlier remarks about NNPC staff. He asserted that the Senate's apology for calling NNPC workers thieves was unnecessary because he made the statement personally, not on behalf of the Senate. Oshiomhole made these comments following a clash in the Senate the previous week.
Allegations of Undermining Ambitions
The All Progressives Congress (APC) federal lawmaker further alleged that Akpabio is attempting to undermine his ambitions for the Senate Presidency. According to Oshiomhole, Akpabio is trying to portray him as a controversial figure to damage his image. He stated, 'If Akpabio has his way, he would lock me out of the Senate because he has misled himself into thinking that I’m probably the devil he knows. However, there are many agents he doesn’t know, and the 11th Senate will not be the 10th Senate. Senators are grovelling about his style of leadership.'
Oshiomhole's Prediction for 2027 Election
In a related development, Oshiomhole predicted that the 2027 elections would pose no challenge for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He strongly criticized Peter Gregory Obi's leadership on security issues in Anambra state. The former APC national chairman forecasted a landslide victory for President Tinubu despite opposition candidates.
Warnings About Reckless Allegations
Meanwhile, energy correspondent Dr. Adeyemi Adegbola warned that unverified allegations against NNPC could harm Nigeria's investment image and discourage foreign capital. He argued that debates surrounding the national oil company should be driven by evidence, due process, and transparent investigations. Adegbola also noted that investor confidence will become increasingly important as NNPC pursues reforms and prepares for possible future capital market activities.
