In a statement released on Friday, the group dismissed the allegations as unfounded and politically driven propaganda aimed at damaging the reputation of one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in the petroleum sector.

It stated that no Senate committee, anti-corruption agency, judicial panel, or any recognised investigative body has ever indicted, probed, or formally connected Dr. Wunti to any missing funds or alleged financial wrongdoing related to the claims.

The group described the reports as a deliberate attempt at character assassination, targeting a technocrat whose nearly 35-year career in the oil and gas industry has been defined by leadership, reforms, and measurable achievements.

“It is both dishonest and irresponsible to falsely drag Bala Wunti into a fabricated corruption narrative where no credible or verifiable evidence exists,” the statement said.

The organisation highlighted Dr. Wunti’s contributions during his time at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and its upstream investment arm, noting his role in advancing national energy development.

As former Chief Investment Officer of NNPC Upstream Investment Management Services (NUIMS), Wunti reportedly oversaw major aspects of Nigeria’s upstream portfolio, strengthened joint ventures, improved production efficiency, boosted investor confidence, and supported asset optimisation across key oil and gas operations.

Under his leadership, NUIMS was credited with implementing upstream reforms, improving governance structures, supporting production growth, and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global energy market.

He was also recognised for promoting investment-friendly policies, sustainable resource management, and long-term sector profitability.

Before retiring in 2025 as NNPC’s Chief Group Corporate Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) Officer, Wunti had built a reputation as a seasoned professional with expertise spanning operations, investment strategy, safety governance, and corporate transformation.

The group further noted that the ₦210 trillion controversy had been challenged by experts, who explained that the figures largely represent accounting obligations, financing arrangements, and joint venture structures rather than stolen or missing public funds.

Agenda for Positive Change also warned against the growing use of misinformation, social media speculation, and politically motivated narratives to discredit public figures.

It stressed that accountability must be based on facts, due process, and verified investigations, not rumours or sensational claims.

The group urged Nigerians to reject attempts to manipulate public opinion through falsehoods and unverified accusations.

It reaffirmed that Dr. Wunti remains an accomplished industry leader who has not been indicted in any ₦210 trillion scandal, describing contrary claims as false, malicious, and unfounded.