A coalition of civil society organisations on Friday called for immediate investigations into alleged sabotage against the operations of petroleum refineries in Nigeria.
The group also demanded the immediate removal from office of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mr Mele Kyari, stating that his management of the oil industry has done more harm than good to local refineries.
During a protest rally at the National Assembly Complex, Abuja, the group, under the auspices of the Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations, claimed that policies formulated by the NNPCL to reposition the oil sector were profit-driven and “obstructed local initiatives designed to support energy self-sufficiency and job creation.”
Addressing journalists at the event, the national spokesperson of the group, Segun Adebayo, said, “Despite Nigeria’s potential to refine fuel locally, vested interests within the NNPCL continue to impose Premium Motor Spirit importation on Nigeria.
“This unnecessary import dependency costs Nigeria billions in foreign exchange every year, placing our economy under enormous strain. Meanwhile, the people bear the brunt of fluctuating global oil prices and currency devaluation, while this cabal profits from maintaining the status quo.
“We must hold accountable those who prioritise personal gain over national prosperity. They are frustrating the nation’s move towards self-sufficiency, ensuring that Nigeria remains exposed to the volatility of the international oil market. This is unacceptable and unsustainable for a nation as richly endowed with natural resources as ours.”
Also speaking, the national coordinator of the group, Benjamin James, called on the authorities to allow the sale of crude to local refineries in naira.
He said, “One critical policy shift we advocate for is mandating that Nigerian crude oil be sold to local refineries in naira rather than in dollars. This change would significantly reduce our foreign exchange losses, empower local businesses, and protect the naira.
“A shift to selling crude oil domestically in naira would also send a strong message that Nigeria is serious about prioritising its local industries and economic sovereignty.”
