BREAKING: Paul Ibe Reacts to OPL 245 Controversy, Clears Air on Atiku’s Alleged Interest

Paul Ibe, spokesperson to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has firmly dismissed claims linking his principal to any interest in the controversial OPL 245 oil block, stressing that Atiku has never been involved and will never be.

Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Ibe stated unequivocally that Atiku Abubakar “does not have an interest in OPL 245, has never had an interest in the contentious OPL 245, and will never have an interest in OPL 245.” His statement comes amid renewed public discourse surrounding the long-running dispute over the oil block, which has remained a subject of national and international attention.

Ibe’s remarks appear to be a direct response to recent reports and questions raised in the media regarding whether the former Vice President has any stake or hidden involvement in the oil block. By issuing the clarification, he aimed to put to rest any speculation or insinuations suggesting otherwise.

Despite distancing Atiku from the controversy, Ibe acknowledged that the matter of OPL 245 is of significant importance to Nigerians. He emphasized that while Atiku himself has no personal interest in the oil block, the Nigerian people have a legitimate and inherent stake in the nation’s natural resources.

According to him, this public interest must be protected and handled with transparency and accountability. He noted that OPL 245, like other national assets, should be managed in a way that reflects the collective benefit of Nigerians rather than serving private or individual interests.

The statement reinforces Atiku Abubakar’s longstanding position on issues of governance and resource management, particularly his advocacy for transparency in the oil and gas sector. It also highlights the need for public trust and proper oversight in dealing with assets that belong to the Nigerian people.

As conversations around OPL 245 continue, Ibe’s clarification seeks to clearly separate Atiku Abubakar from the controversy while redirecting attention to the broader national interest, urging that the focus should remain on safeguarding what rightfully belongs to all Nigerians.