Crude oil supply to local refineries is not only a matter of law, as stipulated in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), but also a patriotic duty and an essential step toward national economic growth and self-reliance.
This was the assertion of the Convener of the Nigerian Youths Council, Comrade Danesi Momoh, during the Mega Citizens’ Rally Against Sabotage and Economic Saboteurs in the Nigerian Petroleum Sector, held in Port Harcourt.
Comrade Momoh expressed dismay that Dangote Refinery is compelled to import crude oil from other countries due to challenges in sourcing locally, describing the situation as “sad and embarrassing.”
He urged Nigerians to rise collectively against this disturbing trend, which, according to him, continues to impede the steady availability of petroleum products in the country.
“If we do not rise, this country will not forgive us”, Momoh stated. “We must ensure that our indigenous refineries are adequately supplied and supported before looking elsewhere.
“Supplying crude oil to Dangote and other local refineries should be considered an irreducible minimum responsibility of the government.”
He further appealed to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu to intervene and address the operational irregularities allegedly perpetuated by some industry unions such as NUPENG, DAPMAN, and PENGASSAN, stressing that local refineries must have unhindered access to crude oil supply.
This, he said, would significantly reduce the cost of petroleum products across the nation.
In his remarks, the National Coordinator of the Patriotic Nigerian Youths Forum, Comrade Olamide Odumosu, noted that Nigeria is gradually moving away from the shame of depending on imported refined petroleum products toward becoming a major exporter.
He emphasized that this positive transition must be protected from any form of sabotage.
Also speaking, the Managing Director of Uncommon Accountability for Good Governance, Comrade Olugbenga Adeyeye, declared that Nigerian youths are ready to take to the streets in peaceful unity to demand accountability and an end to crude oil supply sabotage.
The highlight of the event was a mass citizens’ rally, which began at Isaac Boro Park and moved through major streets of Port Harcourt, drawing wide public participation and solidarity.
- Nwankwoala is the Information Officer, Ministry of Environment.