Fate of NNPC CEO in Jeopardy Over Ties to Atiku’s Son-in-Law

The position of Bashir Bayo Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited is under serious threat amid allegations linking him to questionable financial transactions involving Atiku Abubakar’s son-in-law.

According to a report from The Cable, Ojulari has not resigned, contrary to widespread speculation. However, sources say his hold on the role is weakening fast, with the presidency reportedly preparing an exit plan. President Bola Tinubu, who appointed him just four months ago, is said to be deeply angered by recent security briefings about Ojulari’s activities.

At the heart of the controversy is AA\&R Investment Group, a company owned by Abdullahi Bashir-Haske, who is married to Atiku’s daughter. The company, which operates in energy, agribusiness, and logistics, is alleged to have received millions of dollars in transactions involving NNPC — some of which have been flagged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Bashir-Haske was previously a major NNPC contractor during the tenure of the late Maikanti Baru, but was cut off under Mele Kyari’s leadership.

Ojulari, who previously served as Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company and chaired BAT Advisory & Energy Company Nigeria Ltd, is said to have re-established ties between NNPC and Bashir-Haske upon taking office. The EFCC is reportedly investigating these deals for possible large-scale money laundering, raising concerns that NNPC funds may have inadvertently supported political opposition.

Presidency insiders describe Tinubu as feeling betrayed, viewing Ojulari’s actions as politically reckless. While outright dismissal may be avoided to prevent early embarrassment, efforts are underway to ease Ojulari out of the role.

“What Ojulari has been doing amounts to sleeping with the enemy,” one source reportedly told The Cable.