By Abdulhameed Musa Abdullahi
An All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholder and former aspirant for the position of National Youth Leader (North-West Zone), Abdulhameed Musa Abdullahi, has said that the outcome of the 9th sitting of the Senate Public Accounts Committee has further reinforced public understanding of issues surrounding the ongoing review of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) audit queries.
Following close observation of the committee’s proceedings from the first to the ninth sitting, the stakeholder noted that several narratives previously circulated against Umar Ajiya Isa were exaggerated and created, in his view, to form premature conclusions before the completion of due process.
He stated that the latest sitting provided further clarification on issues arising from the audited accounts under review, adding that the engagements have largely centered on reconciling audit observations and obtaining institutional explanations rather than establishing personal criminal liability.
According to him, no conclusive evidence has been publicly presented linking the former NNPCL Chief Financial Officer to allegations of misappropriation, diversion, or unlawful withholding of public funds, despite sustained public scrutiny and repeated appearances before the Senate Committee.
He also observed that the hearings have underscored the importance of allowing lawful investigations to run their full course before reaching conclusions, cautioning against what he described as trial by public opinion.
The stakeholder further commended Ajiya’s conduct during the legislative sessions, describing it as calm, professional, and respectful in the face of intense questioning and public attention.
He maintained that such comportment reflects the discipline expected of senior professionals who have served in strategic sectors of the national economy, particularly oil and gas.
While acknowledging the importance of legislative oversight, he stressed that such processes must be guided by fairness, factual evidence, and respect for individuals appearing before committees.
He added that accountability and dignity are not mutually exclusive, but rather complementary principles within democratic governance.
He further noted that developments from the Senate hearings have highlighted the resilience and competence of individuals subjected to prolonged public scrutiny, stating that such processes allow the public to better assess capacity, clarity, and professionalism.
According to him, the unfolding political environment underscores the need for leadership that is grounded in experience, technical competence, and personal integrity.
The stakeholder urged Nigerians to prioritize due process over speculation, adding that premature conclusions based on unverified narratives undermine justice and public trust.
He also cautioned against what he described as politically motivated allegations and the dangers of media-driven judgment before the conclusion of formal investigations.
Reaffirming his position, he said no individual should be condemned without credible and established evidence, insisting that fairness and justice remain essential to democratic accountability.
He concluded that citizens of Sokoto East Senatorial District and Nigerians at large deserve leaders whose reputations are determined by verified facts and service records rather than unproven allegations.
Abdulhameed Musa Abdullahi is an APC Stakeholder Former Aspirant, National Youth Leader (North-West Zone), APC
10 June 2026
Typing from Abuja.