The Energy Reforms Advocates (ERA) and the APC Youth Vanguard for Change (APCYVC) have called on President Bola Tinubu to look into the ongoing failures of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) in restoring the Port Harcourt and other local refineries.
The organizations expressed alarm over the $2.9 billion allocated in 2021 for the rehabilitation of these refineries, which continue to remain inactive despite assurances from NNPCL.
In their letter to the President, they highlighted the deteriorating condition of Nigeria’s petroleum sector, attributing it to the persistent failures of NNPCL and its leadership, particularly Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari.
ERA Convener Opialu Fabian and APCYVC Convener Ezewanka Ugochukwu, who co-signed the letter, noted that these failures have resulted in economic sabotage, health hazards, and environmental risks stemming from the importation of substandard fuel.
They criticized NNPCL’s repeated commitments and ongoing inaction, pointing to systemic failures and corruption within its leadership.
The letter questioned how the funds designated for refinery rehabilitation have been utilized, suggesting a lack of accountability. Despite billions spent on maintenance over the past 25 years, there has been little to no fuel production.
The coalition has raised concerns regarding Mele Kyari’s leadership, urging President Tinubu to initiate a comprehensive investigation into his administration.
Among the demands, they called for a probe to uncover the truth behind the ongoing failures and alleged financial misconduct.
The groups proposed urgent measures such as overhauling the regulatory framework, reactivating local refineries, ensuring transparency in subsidy implementation, strengthening NNPCL’s leadership, and enhancing public access to information.
The letter stated: “Your Excellency, we are facing a critical situation. Despite the $2.9 billion approved in 2021 for the rehabilitation of these essential refineries, they remain inactive. NNPCL has consistently assured Nigerians that these facilities would soon be operational, yet these promises have not materialized.
“The refineries lie dormant while Nigeria, the largest oil producer in Africa, depends on foreign countries for its fuel needs. The ongoing importation of substandard fuel not only betrays public trust but highlights a systemic failure within NNPCL’s leadership.
“The influx of adulterated fuel undermines the health, safety, and economic stability of Nigerians. This low-quality fuel damages vehicles and agricultural machinery while citizens pay inflated prices, contributing to rising inflation and daily struggles.
“It is unacceptable that Nigeria, as a top oil-producing nation, must rely on imported petroleum products to satisfy domestic demand. This reliance threatens our foreign reserves while a corrupt few profit immensely, actively opposing efforts to rehabilitate our refineries.
“At the heart of this issue is the NNPCL leadership, which appears either unable or unwilling to meet its responsibilities. Mr. Mele Kyari must be held accountable for these failures.
“The importation of substandard fuel poses serious risks to the health of citizens and the environment. Vehicles, agricultural equipment, and generators are all vulnerable to damage from this inferior fuel.
“It is time for systemic reform. The challenges we face are complex, rooted in institutional corruption, regulatory shortcomings, and a culture of impunity. We propose immediate actions, including:
– Comprehensive investigation and accountability
– Revamping the regulatory framework
– Reactivating local refineries
– Ensuring transparency in subsidy implementation
– Strengthening NNPCL’s leadership and oversight
– Empowering the public with information and action.
“Mr. President, as Nigeria seeks to pave a path toward sustainable economic growth, self-sufficiency, and a brighter future for its citizens, energy security must be a priority. The current actions and inactions of NNPCL and its leadership are undermining our national interests. We urge Your Excellency to take swift and decisive action to address these enduring failures.”
