The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (P-CNGi) has dismissed recent allegations leveled against its operations, attributing the claims to a vendor previously suspended from its Conversion Incentive Program for unethical practices.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Kenechukwu Chukwu, Technical Assistant on Stakeholder Management and Public Engagement at P-CNGi, identified Charles Goriola Yakubu of C & L Smart Energy Limited as the mastermind behind the allegations. Yakubu, who now leads a group called the Independent Conversion Sector (ICS), was suspended from the program in December 2024.
According to P-CNGi, C & L Smart Energy was found to have sold government-issued CNG kits—meant to be provided free of charge to commercial vehicle operators—at inflated prices ranging between ₦200,000 and ₦1.2 million. The agency said its decision to suspend the vendor was based on video evidence, witness testimonies, and reports of vehicle damage linked to Yakubu’s operations.
“The attention of the management of the Presidential CNG Initiative has been drawn to a sponsored smear campaign,” the statement read. “Records show that C & L Smart Energy was part of the PCNGI Conversion Incentive Program until December 2024, when it was suspended due to sharp practices.”
P-CNGi further revealed that the matter has been referred to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for investigation. The agency clarified that it does not engage in direct procurement or award contracts, relying instead on appropriate government bodies for such activities.
“We take the integrity of this program seriously,” the statement emphasized. “We remain committed to this mission and urge the press and the public to avoid unnecessary distractions.”
The initiative also warned that it is considering legal action over what it described as ongoing electronic blackmail and cyberbullying stemming from the allegations.
P-CNGi reiterated its commitment to promoting clean and affordable energy solutions, urging Nigerians to continue supporting its drive to expand access to compressed natural gas and electric vehicle alternatives nationwide.
