The Senate Committee investigating the alleged misappropriation of funds in the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has cautioned social media users and influencers against spreading false information about its ongoing probe.
The warning was issued during a committee sitting, where lawmakers stressed the importance of accurate reporting and public discourse as the investigation continues.
Chairman of the committee, Senator Ahmad Wadada, made the remarks while presiding over a session attended by former Chief Financial Officer of the NNPC, Umar Ajiya.
Wadada emphasised that the committee’s work is focused on uncovering facts and should not be misrepresented by unverified claims circulating online.
According to Wadada, the committee’s investigation spans financial activities from 2012 to the present, a timeline that does not fully overlap with Ajiya’s tenure. He noted that the appearance of the former CFO was part of efforts to clarify specific financial records and transactions presented to the panel for review.
The committee commended Ajiya for honoring its invitation and cooperating with lawmakers. Members provided him with relevant documents during the session and requested detailed explanations to aid their understanding of the financial matters under scrutiny. The panel also indicated that it would carefully review all submissions before determining the next steps regarding its final report.
Reiterating its stance, the committee stressed that it has not accused any individual of theft or misappropriation of public funds. Wadada said that the investigation remains a fact-finding exercise and urged the public to refrain from drawing premature conclusions or assigning blame without evidence.
The lawmakers further issued a strong warning to social media handlers, urging them to desist from peddling falsehoods that could mislead the public or undermine the integrity of the investigative process.
They emphasized that misinformation could erode trust in public institutions and distract from the committee’s mandate.
In addition, the committee confirmed that it has sent formal communications to other key officials who have yet to appear before it, including former Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Mele Kyari, and senior executive Bala Wunti. The panel warned that failure to honor its invitation could attract further legislative action as the probe progresses.
