By Gloria Ikibah
The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to direct the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and Dangote Refinery to allow independent marketers to begin lifting petrol from the new refinery.
This decision followed a motion by Rep. Oboku Oforji, who represents Yenagoa/Opokuma Federal Constituency in Bayelsa State.
During the debate, Rep. Oforji pointed out that although the Dangote Refinery started operations on September 15, 2024, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, only major marketers have been allowed to lift products so far.
He said, “The House is concerned that giving NNPCL and major marketers exclusive rights to lift fuel creates a monopoly, which is unfair. This is the same NNPCL that has mismanaged our crude and refineries for years.”
He added that if this monopoly continues, the fuel scarcity affecting Nigerians will persist, with harmful effects on the economy.
Rep. Oforji also quoted the late MKO Abiola, who had once criticized the lack of transparency and accountability in NNPCL.
“The House is worried that excluding independent marketers from lifting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) is not beneficial,” Oforji said.
He further mentioned that representatives of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) fear they may have to resort to importing fuel to keep their businesses alive.
The lawmaker commended Dangote Group for starting petroleum refining in Nigeria, stating that this could signal the country’s move towards energy self-sufficiency.
“The House recognizes that with this milestone, Nigeria is on the path to saving costs, attracting foreign investment, and boosting its economy through fuel exports and reduced foreign exchange spending,” he added.
Rep. Oforji emphasized that due to the high demand for fuel, it’s crucial that independent marketers are allowed to lift products from the Dangote refinery.
To improve fuel availability, the House urged Dangote Refinery to establish or collaborate to set up depots across the country.
Meanwhile, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has formed a panel led by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere to work with the Senate in investigating the petroleum sector crisis and finding solutions.
Other members of the committee include Kelechi Nwogu (PDP, Rivers), Patrick Umoh (APC, Akwa Ibom), and Sada Soli (APC, Katsina), among others.