In the complex and dynamic world of the oil industry, transparency and reliability of information are of paramount importance. Recently, the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, strongly refuted allegations that Dangote Refinery was engaged in the reselling of crude oil cargoes from the United States and Nigeria. The allegations, described as “totally false”, were vigorously contested by Agbese, who also dismissed any suggestion that the refinery’s crude distillation unit was malfunctioning, saying it was functioning perfectly and producing high-quality products.
In response to the allegations and insinuations aimed at tarnishing the image of Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Agbese condemned the smear campaigns that have created panic, uncertainty and fuel queues. He decried the alleged involvement of NNPC and NMDPRA in the schemes as “unacceptable”.
Agbese also suggested that some vested interests seeking to import substandard fuels into Nigeria were fuelling the unfounded narratives. He decried a recent Reuters publication accusing Dangote Refinery of selling off its crude oil allocations.
In light of this, the House of Representatives has demanded a thorough investigation to get to the bottom of the allegations. Agbese also recalled that the House had earlier called on the President to sack the CEO of NMDPRA, and warned that it would call for the sacking of NNPC Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari, if the attempts to discredit the refinery continued.
Agbese, beyond individual issues, stressed the imperative of protecting the country’s economic interests. He called for the sacking of the top management of NNPC and NMDPRA to preserve the credibility and prosperity of the Nigerian oil industry.
In a context where global competition in the oil sector is extremely fierce, truth, transparency and accountability are of paramount importance to ensure the sustainability and reputation of key players in this strategic industry. The stakes are high, and it is of paramount importance that any misunderstanding or unfounded allegations that could harm the reputation and stability of the oil sector in Nigeria be clarified.