A coalition of Civil Society Groups has strongly condemned what it described as blackmail and extortion attempts against the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited and other government agencies in connection with allegations of missing 48 million barrels of crude oil.

Speaking at a news briefing in Lagos on Friday, the Co-convener of the group, Mr. Declan Ihekaire, expressed disapproval of the alleged attempts to undermine the rule of law and compromise the integrity of institutions through blackmail.

The House of Representatives initiated a probe in December 2022 into the purported missing 48 million barrels of crude oil, which were said to have been sold in China by some Nigerian officials.

The motion for the investigation was moved by Ibrahim Isiaka (APC – Ogun) based on information from whistleblower Mr. George Uboh.

However, an ad hoc committee of the house, after investigation, declared the claim false and unsubstantiated, urging the EFCC, ICPC, and Police to arrest and prosecute those making such allegations.

Ihekaire emphasized the coalition’s commitment to fighting corruption within public and private institutions but stressed that addressing such concerns should be through established legal processes, not through blackmail or extortion.

“We find it necessary to shed light on the disturbing actions of Mr. George Uboh, who has been engaged in a relentless campaign of serial blackmail and extortion against Kyari and other government agencies, including corporate institutions,” Ihekaire said.

He further explained that Uboh, a self-styled whistleblower known for allegedly publishing false information against numerous individuals and organizations in Nigeria, had been dismissed by the National Assembly and had faced arrests and convictions for his activities.

The co-convener called on Uboh and his associates to cease attempts at blackmail and extortion immediately, urging them to respect the legal processes already in motion.

Ihekaire emphasized the importance of upholding justice, fairness, and due process, urging the public to remain vigilant against sensationalist claims and manipulation of public opinion.

He reiterated the coalition’s commitment to the rule of law and due process, calling on all stakeholders to support proper legal channels to address concerns within society.