PCNGI Vows Legal Action Over Alleged Smear Campaign, Reaffirms Integrity
The Presidential Compressed Natural Gas Initiative (PCNGI) has strongly condemned what it calls a “sponsored smear campaign” aimed at discrediting its operations, warning that it will take legal action to defend its integrity.
In an official statement released by Kenechukwu Chukwu, the Initiative’s Technical Adviser on Stakeholder Management and Public Engagement, PCNGI accused certain individuals of orchestrating online attacks and spreading falsehoods, particularly through a group identified as the Independent Conversion Sector (ICS).
The group, according to PCNGI, is allegedly linked to Mr. Charles Goriola Yakub, a former participant in its Conversion Incentive Program and representative of C&L Smart Energy Solutions in Abuja.
“This is a clear case of electronic blackmail and cyberbullying,” the statement read. “We are preparing both legal actions and formal reports to law enforcement agencies. Those behind this campaign will have to publicly defend their claims.”
The controversy began after C&L Smart Energy submitted a Freedom of Information (FOI) request, questioning PCNGI’s processes regarding kit distribution and conversion centre approvals. In response, the Initiative defended its operational transparency and disclosed that C&L Smart Energy was suspended in December 2024 following internal investigations.
According to PCNGI, the company was found to have sold government-issued Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) kits—kits that were intended to be distributed at no cost to commercial vehicle operators. The case, PCNGI confirmed, has been referred to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation.
“We take the integrity of this program seriously and urge the public not to be misled by false narratives designed to derail our national mission,” said Chukwu.
PCNGI also clarified that it does not handle procurement or contract awards, but instead plays a facilitative role in collaboration with other government agencies.
As the Initiative faces mounting scrutiny, it reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to promoting clean, affordable transportation solutions through the use of CNG and electric vehicles.
“We remain fully focused on delivering a sustainable transportation future for Nigeria. Attempts to distract or discredit this work will not succeed,” the statement concluded.
