….CROs set to visit the Dangote refinery next week
By Lubem Gena, Abuja
A coalition of over 100 Civil Rights Organisations (CROs) have expressed dismay ove r the altercation between the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Dangote refinery.
The coalition which operates under the auspices of the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) in a statement sent to News Headquarters by it Director General, Dr. Gabriel Nwambu, said it condemned the “actions of the alleged fifth columnist otherwise referred to as cabal in the oil sector, who are determined to destroy the Nigerian State”.
“We therefore express our concern over the disquiet caused by the outbursts of NMDPRA chief executive, Farouk Ahmed, regarding the quality of products and allegations of monopolistic tendencies against Aliko Dangote.
“It is clear that Aliko Dangote’s intervention in the oil economy, through the establishment of the Dangote Refinery, poses a threat to the interests of those who have exploited and drained the sector for decades. This entrenched cabal, along with other new players in the industry, are not willing to tolerate a game-changing intervention that could bring transparency and competition to a notoriously murky sector”, Dr. Nwambu added.
The statement maintained that the cabal, which is holding the Nigerian nation hostage, is determined to destroy the Dangote refinery in their attempt to maintain their control over the oil economy.
He noted that such actions are detrimental to the progress of Nigeria and contribute to the economic quagmire experienced by the poor masses. It is evident that the cabal benefits from an over-inflated subsidy regime that does not equate to the quantity of petroleum products subsidized for.
The Centre informed that, in collaboration with selected civil society organizations, they plan to visit the Dangote Refinery next week.
“This delegation, comprised of seven members, aims to assess the situation firsthand and stand in solidarity with Aliko Dangote against the unfair and damaging actions of the cabal”, he emphasised.
While urging the media and the public to pay close attention to this matter, the Centre said it is committed to promoting accountability, transparency, and fairness in the Nigerian oil sector.
The delegation’s visit to the Dangote Refinery aims to highlight the importance of supporting progressive initiatives that have the potential to drive positive change in our nation.