Reps Demand Access For Independent Marketers To Lift Petrol From NNPC And Dangote Refinery

Reps Demand Access For Independent Marketers To Lift Petrol From NNPC And Dangote Refinery....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The House of Representatives has urged the Federal Government to instruct the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and the Dangote Refinery to permit independent marketers to begin lifting fuel from the newly established refinery. This resolution was passed following a motion of urgent public importance introduced by Oboku Oforji, the representative for Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency in Bayelsa State…….CONTINUE READING 

During the debate, Oforji highlighted that despite the Dangote Petroleum Refinery commencing operations at its 650,000 barrels per day capacity on September 15, 2024, only major marketers have been granted access to lift products from the refinery. He expressed concern that the NNPCL and major marketers are effectively creating a monopoly, which he described as a form of greed, particularly given the NNPCL’s historical failures in managing the nation’s crude oil and refineries.

Oforji stated, “If this monopoly persists, the hardships faced by Nigerians due to fuel shortages will continue, significantly impacting the economy.” He referenced a past statement by the late MKO Abiola, who criticized the NNPCL for its lack of transparency and accountability.

He pointed out that representatives from the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) have expressed worries that they might have to resort to fuel imports to sustain their businesses if the current situation does not change.

The lawmaker commended the Dangote Group for initiating petroleum refining, asserting that this development marks a step toward Nigeria’s energy self-sufficiency. He noted, “This achievement could lead to cost savings, foreign exchange conservation, and increased foreign capital investment, contributing positively to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product.”

Given the high demand for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and the challenges Nigerians face in obtaining it, Oforji reiterated the need for the NNPCL to allow independent marketers access to lift products from the Dangote refinery. He warned that failing to address the existing monopoly would result in continued hardships for citizens and detrimental effects on the economy.

To enhance fuel availability, the House urged the management of the Dangote Refinery to consider building or partnering with stakeholders to establish tank farms or depots across the country’s geopolitical zones.

Additionally, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has formed a committee led by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere to investigate the ongoing issues in the petroleum sector and provide recommendations for improvement. Other committee members include Kelechi Nwogu (PDP, Rivers), Patrick Umoh (APC, Akwa Ibom), and Sada Soli (APC, Katsina).