CURRENT REPORT BLOG In recent developments, former Nigerian Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has dispelled rumors linking him to the Federal Government’s decision to reinstate Integrated Logistic Services Nigeria Limited (Intels) for boat pilotage monitoring business. This move has sparked public speculation, with some alleging that President Bola Tinubu played a role in the reinstatement. In this blog post, we delve into Atiku’s clarification, emphasizing his divestment from Intels and exploring the details surrounding the reinstated contract.
Atiku’s Statement and Divestment
Atiku addressed the rumors via his official Facebook page, asserting that he would not benefit personally from the Federal Government’s decision. He provided clarity on his relationship with Intels, highlighting that he sold his shares in the company to Orlean Investment Group, the parent company of Intels, in January 2021. The former vice president disclosed that the phased sale of his shares began in 2018 and was completed in December 2020. Additionally, Intels publicly announced Atiku’s exit from the oil and gas logistics company, confirming the change in ownership.
Reinstatement of Intels’ Contract
The Nigerian Ports Authority, through a letter dated November 30, announced the reinstatement of Intels as the service boat operation monitoring provider in the pilotage districts. This decision followed a Presidential Directive dated August 18, 2023, and a consent judgment of the Federal High Court, Lagos, dated September 21, 2023. The letter emphasized the extension of the Service Boat Operation Contract to support the Authority’s and Federal Government’s efforts to boost revenue generation.
Atiku’s Ineligibility to Benefit
Atiku clarified that, due to his divestment from Intels, he cannot be considered a beneficiary of the reinstated boat pilotage monitoring business. He refuted claims that he might profit from the government’s decision and described such insinuations as untrue and mischievous.
