Reps summon Dangote, NMDPRA boss over renewed downstream sector rift

The House of Representatives Joint Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream and Midstream) have summoned the leadership of the Dangote Refinery Group and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) in a move to contain a renewed wave of tension in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.

The committees, led by Ikenga Ugochinyere and Henry Okogie, disclosed the decision on Monday following an emergency meeting convened in response to what they described as “growing tension” capable of undermining the fragile stability recently achieved in the sector.

They summoned both parties to present their grievances for immediate resolution and have instructed them to halt all media hostilities pending the outcome of the investigation, which is expected to be concluded within days.

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Ugochinyere revealed that the committees had already received petitions relating to critical industry concerns, including the issuance of import licences and questions about whether domestic refineries have the capacity to meet Nigeria’s daily petroleum needs.

“These are serious matters. Some relate to import licences, others to whether local refineries can produce enough to satisfy national demand. The committee’s ongoing investigation will address these issues,” he said.

Ugochinyere stressed that all outstanding matters would be thoroughly examined when key stakeholders in the refining and regulatory sectors appear before the committee.

“By the time Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the NMDPRA, and other stakeholders meet with the committee, we will have a clear understanding of the situation and be able to implement resolutions that provide sustainable solutions for the sector,” he assured.

According to him, the committees were compelled to act swiftly to prevent further escalation, particularly at a time when government and industry stakeholders are striving to stabilise supply, pricing, and regulation in the post-subsidy era.

“The key issue that necessitated this emergency meeting was the growing tension returning to the downstream sector as a result of concerns and allegations raised by Alhaji Aliko Dangote against the NMDPRA,” Ugochinyere said.

“This is happening at a time when the committee is jealously guarding the stability that has been achieved in the sector,” he further said.

The committee also appealed to both parties to halt public exchanges and media comments while legislative intervention is ongoing.

“We have resolved to plead with the contending parties to cease fire, particularly in the media, to prevent further escalation. The committee has the capacity to intervene and find lasting solutions once and for all”, Ugochinyere noted.

Reiterating the committee’s appeal, the chairman urged all parties to suspend further accusations while the House works to resolve the dispute in the national interest.

“We are urging them to halt attacks on each other, whether from the regulatory agency or the refining community, while the committee addresses these issues,” he said.

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