The Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, Mele Kyari, has vehemently denied allegations that the company or its personnel are involved in the importation of substandard petroleum products into the country. Appearing before a Senate Ad-hoc Committee investigating alleged economic sabotage in the petroleum industry, Kyari placed the blame squarely on regulatory lapses.
“We Are Not Criminals”: Kyari
In a spirited defense of the NNPC, Kyari asserted that the company is a victim of undue media attacks aimed at creating a negative perception of its role in the nation’s economy. He emphasized that the company is not involved in any criminal activities and is committed to transparency and accountability.
We are not criminals or thieves,” Kyari declared. The oil and gas industry is bleeding, and we are working tirelessly to address the challenges.
Regulatory Framework and Importation Process
Kyari explained the importation process, highlighting the involvement of regulatory agencies in ensuring product quality. He stressed that no substandard product can enter the country without passing through these regulatory checkpoints.
There are rules and regulations governing the importation of petroleum products,” Kyari said. “We adhere strictly to these regulations. It is impossible for substandard products to bypass the regulatory agencies.”
Focus on Refineries and Local Production
The NNPC GCEO emphasized the company’s commitment to increasing local refining capacity to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the refineries but expressed optimism about their eventual turnaround.
We have the potential to produce two million barrels of crude oil per day,” Kyari stated. However, issues like crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and inadequate investment in the upstream sector are hindering our progress.
Industry Challenges and Market Dynamics
Kyari attributed the withdrawal of oil marketers from the importation business to the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which has introduced new responsibilities for industry players. He explained that price fluctuations in the downstream sector have also made importation less attractive for private operators.
“The PIA has brought about significant changes in the industry,” Kyari said. “Coupled with price volatility, it has led to a reduction in the number of importers.”
Accusations and Denials
The NNPC’s claims of innocence have been met with skepticism by some quarters, especially following the recent spate of substandard fuel incidents. Several oil marketing companies accused by the NNPC of importing contaminated fuel have vehemently denied the allegations, further muddying the waters.
Public Outcry and Demand for Accountability
The issue of substandard fuel importation has sparked widespread public outrage, with Nigerians demanding accountability from all stakeholders involved. The Senate committee investigating the matter is expected to delve deeper into the issue and summon more witnesses in the coming weeks.
As the investigation unfolds, the Nigerian public awaits concrete actions to address the persistent problem of substandard fuel and ensure the protection of consumers.
