NNPC New Status: Atiku Says A Lot Still Needs To Be Done

By Ayodele Oni

Presidential candidate of People’s Democratic Party, (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has said a lot still needs to be done to make the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, (NNPC) a private entity.

Atiku, speaking as a guest on an Arise Television programme, said the present administration has commenced the process but a lot still needs to be done.

He said “a lot still needs to be done, it is being done secretly now. Nigeria and the international community have not seen it being transparently done.

“How much percentage is still being retained by Government and how much is being given out to private sector?

“When we were in Government, I took a proposal to my boss that 10 percent should be given to international community to increase efficiency and integrity of the NNPC, but was not accepted.

“We have seen a secret transaction by Government, no element of transparency.”

Atiku also said that States ought to have been involved in the entire process.

On Muslim/Muslim ticket of the ruling All Progressive Congress, (APC) the PDP flagbearer, he stated “This is my fundamental disagreement with Asiwaju and political departure.

“I mean the issue of muslim-muslim ticket of a thing. I opposed it and this reinforced decision of Buhari to pick a Christian as running mate in 2015. It is not good for Nigeria. I believe there should be balancing of interest.”

Atiku advised that animal  grazing is a state issue, saying “I have over 1,000 cattle and they have never left the shores of Adamawa. The Federation should not have anything to do with that matter at all. It is the responsibility of the State.

On the choice of his running mate, Atiku pointed out that “There was actually no vote. Three names came up from the committee and I picked one.

“Okowa even chaired the Committee. So, I think people should be fair to me. We are reaching out to Wike and talking to him and, very soon, we will reconcile.

“Okowa is qualified in all political parameters. He has acquired experience and he is intellectually qualified. I don’t miss Peter Obi because he did not consult me before he decamped.”

Speaking on corruption allegation  against him, Atiku stated that “I once challenged Nigerians to bring up corruption charges against me, but nothing was presented. I was once investigated but nothing found.

He also spoke on relationship between him and his former boss, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, saying  “I’ve been talking to him but yet to meet him after my emergence. Why will he not give me support? He is my former boss.

On the source of his wealth, Atiku explained that he had been into private business while still in active service.

“Being a public officer does not stop you from engaging in business, since there is no conflict of interest and so far it is a legitimate business.

He promised that his administration will reposition public sector to become more accountable, disciplined and performance-oriented.

“Service delivery shall be more efficient and effective.”

Atiku hinted that  “If I am elected President today, Ayu leaves the seat of Chairman.”