Fuel Production Delays at Port Harcourt Refinery Spark Fears of Exploitation
The Niger Delta Youth Network (NDYN) has expressed disappointment and concern over the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) inability to commence fuel production at the Port Harcourt Refinery in Rivers State. Despite numerous promises, the refinery has failed to function, with six postponements as of August this year.
In a statement, NDYN convener Dakuku Francis lamented that the recurring failure by NNPCL confirms the existence of a cabal within the company deliberately scheming to exploit the region’s crude oil producers. The group demanded action from the company, citing concerns that the repeated delays may be part of a plot to exploit the region’s resources.
Francis alleged that stakeholders in the sector plan to utilize the Port Harcourt refinery as a blending company, where imported fuel would be mixed with chemicals and sold to the people of the Niger Delta region at the detriment of their health. He criticized NNPCL’s lack of transparency and accountability, saying it has exacerbated regional tensions and created uncertainty and distrust among stakeholders.
The NNPCL’s silence on the reasons behind the repeated delays and broken promises has raised questions about the company’s commitment to the region’s development. NDYN is calling for answers and action from the company, fearing that its actions may be driven by a desire to exploit the region’s resources.
The Port Harcourt refinery’s failure to commence fuel production has significant implications for the region’s economy and environment. The Niger Delta region is rich in oil resources, and the refinery’s inability to function is a major concern for the local population.
