ICYMI: Nigerians Call for NMDPRA Chief’s Removal Over Anti-Dangote Refinery Remarks

Nigerians have criticized Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), for his comments claiming that diesel from the $20 billion Dangote refinery is of lower quality than imported fuel.

Ahmed’s remarks, made during a statement that the federal government will continue to allow fuel imports, have sparked outrage among Nigerians who accuse him of undermining the refinery owned by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote. Ahmed stated that the diesel from Dangote’s refinery has a high sulfur content of around 1,000 parts per million, compared to the imported fuel which meets the West African standard of 50 ppm.

He further explained that the Dangote refinery is still in the pre-commissioning phase and has not yet been licensed. He also criticized Dangote’s request for the suspension of all fuel imports to make the refinery the sole supplier, arguing that reliance on a single refinery could harm national energy security and create a monopoly.

The NMDPRA chief’s comments have led to a public outcry, with many on social media calling for his removal. Critics argue that his statements may be an attempt to hinder the progress of the Dangote refinery, which is seen as a key player in Nigeria’s drive for self-sufficiency in petroleum products.

Nigerians have taken to social media platforms to voice their discontent, with some accusing Ahmed of economic sabotage and self-interest. Many are urging President Bola Tinubu to take action against Ahmed to prevent further damage to the refinery’s reputation and to support local production efforts.

The Dangote Group has not yet issued an official response to Ahmed’s statements.