The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has firmly denied allegations of importing substandard premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. Speaking on the matter, Chief Corporate Communications Officer Olufemi Soneye challenged critics to provide evidence if they claim NNPC has brought in low-quality fuel.
These accusations surfaced after civil society organizations staged protests outside NNPC’s offices, demanding the resignation of Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, primarily in response to recent increases in petrol prices. Addressing the allegations, Soneye stated, “NNPC Ltd. does not import adulterated fuel. We challenge anyone with evidence to bring forward samples of any such fuel allegedly imported by NNPC Ltd.”
The protestors’ criticism also echoed comments from Dangote Petroleum Refinery, suggesting that oil marketers offering petrol below Dangote’s pricing are likely distributing lower-quality products. This assertion followed complaints from marketers who suggested that Dangote’s prices were less competitive than imported fuel.
Soneye further defended the NNPC GCEO, explaining that petrol pricing decisions are outside Kyari’s control. “If they understood the processes,” Soneye remarked, “they would know the GCEO is not responsible for the recent price adjustments.” He highlighted that under Kyari’s leadership, NNPC held prices at N620 per litre for over a year, even when the landing cost exceeded N1,100 per litre.
Despite public outcry over recent price surges—from N855 per litre in September to N998 in early October, and most recently to N1,025 in Lagos and N1,050 in Abuja on October 28—NNPC remains committed to the national roadmap set forth by President Bola Tinubu for advancing Nigeria’s energy security.
In conclusion, Soneye reaffirmed NNPC’s dedication to key projects aimed at ensuring a stable energy future for Nigeria, stating that these objectives would not be derailed by ongoing protests.
