The Presidential CNG Initiative (PCNGI), a program designed to transition Nigerian vehicles from traditional fuels to cleaner, more affordable Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), has taken decisive action against a conversion partner involved in the illicit sale of government-provided CNG conversion kits. C & L Smart Energy Limited, headed by Charles Goriola Yakub, was delisted from the program after a thorough investigation uncovered evidence of the company selling kits, meant to be installed free of charge for commercial vehicle operators, at exorbitant prices ranging from N200,000 to N1.2 million. This act of profiteering undermined the core objective of the initiative, which aims to alleviate the financial burden on transporters and promote wider adoption of CNG as a fuel source. The PCNGI has emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations, highlighting the steps taken to address this misconduct.
In the wake of the delisting, C & L Smart Energy Limited, rather than accepting responsibility for its actions, launched a retaliatory smear campaign against the PCNGI. This campaign, characterized by online attacks and media pronouncements, aimed to discredit the initiative and deflect attention from the company’s wrongdoing. The PCNGI has identified Charles Goriola Yakub as the orchestrator of this campaign, which it describes as a form of “electronic blackmail and cyberbullying.” The PCNGI maintains that these actions are an attempt to intimidate the initiative and undermine its efforts to expand the use of CNG across the country. The organization has vowed to pursue legal action against those involved in the smear campaign, emphasizing its determination to safeguard its reputation and the integrity of the program.
The PCNGI operates as a facilitating body, collaborating with various government agencies to implement the CNG conversion program. It clarifies that it does not directly handle procurement or award contracts. This structure is designed to ensure transparency and prevent potential conflicts of interest. By partnering with established agencies, the PCNGI can focus on its primary roles of promotion and enablement, driving the adoption of CNG through public awareness campaigns and facilitating the conversion process for vehicle owners. This collaborative approach also allows for greater oversight and accountability within the program.
The illegal activities of C & L Smart Energy Limited directly contradicted the PCNGI’s commitment to providing free conversion kits to commercial operators. This unethical practice not only exploited vulnerable transporters but also hindered the program’s goal of making CNG a more accessible and affordable fuel option. The PCNGI’s swift action in delisting the company and referring the case to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission demonstrates its zero-tolerance policy towards corruption and its dedication to ensuring the program benefits those it is intended to serve. This decisive response sends a clear message that the PCNGI will not compromise on its principles of fairness and transparency.
The PCNGI’s commitment to transparency and accountability is further underscored by its detailed explanation of the investigation process and the evidence gathered against C & L Smart Energy Limited. The organization’s willingness to share information about the case reinforces its commitment to open governance and public trust. By providing context and evidence, the PCNGI aims to counter the misinformation spread by the smear campaign and maintain public confidence in its operations. This commitment to transparency strengthens the PCNGI’s position and demonstrates its resolve to uphold the highest ethical standards.
The PCNGI remains steadfast in its mission to promote the adoption of CNG and electric vehicles (EVs) in Nigeria. Despite the challenges posed by the smear campaign and the illegal activities of its former partner, the initiative remains focused on its core mandate of providing clean, affordable, and reliable transportation options for all Nigerians. The PCNGI views CNG and EVs as crucial components of a sustainable transportation future, contributing to both economic development and environmental protection. The initiative’s unwavering commitment to its goals, even in the face of adversity, underscores its dedication to a cleaner and more sustainable future for Nigeria.
