By Erewunmi Peace

The Senate has threatened to issue an arrest warrant against the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), Bayo Ojulari, over his failure to appear before its Public Accounts Committee.

The committee is currently investigating audit queries involving about ₦210 trillion reportedly reflected in the financial records of the NNPC between 2017 and 2023.

Lawmakers expressed concern over repeated absences and non-compliance with invitations extended to the NNPC leadership, warning that continued refusal to honour the summons may lead to stronger legislative actions, including the issuance of an arrest warrant.

The Senate Committee is also seeking clarifications from other current and former officials of the oil company regarding discrepancies raised in the audit reports.

The investigation forms part of broader efforts by the National Assembly to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of public funds and national assets.

Further updates are expected as the committee continues its hearings and engages relevant stakeholders on the matter.