Report Alleges Aso Rock Memo Linked to ₦54 Billion NUPRC Revenue Dispute Involving Gbajabiamila
By Fact Harbour News
A report has alleged that an internal memo from the Presidency has raised questions over the legal basis for the transfer of ₦54 billion in revenue generated by the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), prompting renewed public discussion on transparency and accountability in the management of public funds.
According to the report, the controversy centres on claims that a legal provision relied upon in approving the release of the funds was either misapplied or did not provide the authority cited for the transaction. The report further alleges that the process involved senior government officials, including the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
The publication claims that the memo highlighted concerns over the interpretation of the relevant law and questioned whether the transfer complied with existing financial and statutory procedures governing public revenue. However, the claims contained in the report have not been independently verified by Fact Harbour News.
The development has attracted attention from legal practitioners, civil society organisations, and public policy analysts, some of whom have called for greater transparency regarding the management of government revenue and the legal framework guiding such decisions.
The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), established under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), is responsible for regulating Nigeria’s upstream petroleum sector, overseeing licensing activities, and collecting revenues due to the Federal Government.
Legal experts note that disputes relating to the interpretation of legislation governing public finance are matters that may ultimately be resolved through judicial processes or appropriate oversight mechanisms. They stress that allegations involving public funds should be carefully investigated by the relevant authorities before conclusions are reached.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Femi Gbajabiamila, the Presidency, nor the NUPRC had issued a public response specifically addressing the allegations contained in the report. Fact Harbour News has not independently confirmed the authenticity of the alleged memo or the claims regarding the legal basis of the transaction.
The report has nevertheless generated widespread public interest because of the amount involved and its implications for public financial management, institutional accountability, and governance. Analysts say any official clarification from the relevant authorities would help address public concerns and provide greater understanding of the issues raised.
Fact Harbour News will continue to monitor the matter and publish updates as official statements, responses from the parties involved, or findings from any competent authority become available.
