Suspended Vendor Behind Allegations Against CNG Initiative, Says P-CNGi

P-CNGi Accuses Former Vendor of Unethical Practices

The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) has dismissed recent allegations against its operations, attributing them to a suspended vendor previously involved in fraudulent activities under its Conversion Incentive Program.

Vendor Identified as Source of Claims

In a statement released in Abuja, Kenechukwu Chukwu, Technical Assistant on Stakeholder Management at P-CNGi, identified Charles Goriola Yakubu of C & L Smart Energy Limited as the individual behind the allegations. The group making the claims, the Independent Conversion Sector (ICS), is reportedly led by Yakubu.

“The attention of the management of the Presidential CNG Initiative has been drawn to a sponsored smear campaign by a group known as the Independent Conversion Sector,” the statement read.

Allegations of Fraudulent Practices

P-CNGi revealed that C & L Smart Energy was suspended in December 2024 after investigations uncovered that the company was selling government-issued CNG kits—meant to be installed free for commercial operators—at inflated prices ranging from ₦200,000 to ₦1.2 million.

The agency stated that its findings were supported by video evidence and witness testimonies, including reports of vehicle damage linked to the vendor’s activities.

EFCC Investigation Underway

According to P-CNGi, the matter has been referred to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation. The initiative clarified that it does not directly award contracts or handle procurement, instead working through relevant government agencies while focusing on promoting clean energy solutions.

“We take the integrity of this program seriously… We remain committed to this mission and urge the press and the public to avoid unnecessary distractions,” the statement emphasized.

Legal Action Threatened

P-CNGi signaled its intention to pursue legal action against what it described as ongoing electronic blackmail and cyberbullying related to the allegations. “We hope they are prepared to defend their spurious claims publicly,” the statement concluded.

The initiative called for continued public support in expanding access to compressed natural gas and electric vehicle solutions across Nigeria.

Full credit to the original publisher: The Guardian