Group alleges plot to disrupt crude oil supply to local refineries

A civic group known as Concerned Nigerians has raised alarm over an alleged plot to disrupt the supply of crude oil to domestic refineries across Nigeria.

The group claims that certain vested interests are working against the country’s economic progress by attempting to hinder local refining operations.

In a statement issued on Monday, the National Coordinator of Concerned Nigerians, Obinna Francis, disclosed that they had uncovered what he described as a “sinister plot to stop the supply of crude oil to domestic refineries.”

He warned that such actions could reverse the economic gains achieved under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

Francis highlighted the significant contributions of local refineries to Nigeria’s economic development, emphasizing that their success has helped reduce fuel prices and, consequently, the cost of essential goods.

According to him, the resurgence of domestic refining has played a critical role in stabilizing Nigeria’s energy market.

“We are shocked to learn that certain individuals are allegedly conspiring to sabotage these achievements. Their objective appears to be a return to the days of fuel importation and the reintroduction of subsidies,” Francis stated.

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He explained that restricting crude oil supply to local refineries would create a shortage of refined petroleum products, forcing Nigeria to rely once again on costly fuel imports.

Such a move, he warned, would not only destabilize the economy but also compromise the nation’s goal of energy self-sufficiency.

Concerned Nigerians have urged President Tinubu and the Department of State Services (DSS) to take swift action in preventing any attempt to disrupt crude oil supply to refineries.

The group stressed the importance of safeguarding oil and gas sector reforms to ensure that no group or individuals undermine the progress made so far.

“We commend Mr. President for his leadership in transforming Nigeria’s energy sector. The oil industry has rebounded significantly, and Nigerians no longer experience long queues at petrol stations. This progress must not be reversed,” Francis added.

The resurgence of Nigeria’s refining industry has positioned the country as a key player in West Africa’s petroleum sector. The commissioning of the Dangote Refinery, alongside other private and state-owned refineries, has reduced Nigeria’s reliance on fuel imports.

Despite these gains, some private refineries continue to face challenges in securing adequate crude oil feedstock for their operations. However, recent data indicates that Nigeria’s gasoline imports have declined to their lowest level in nearly eight years.

Notably, the Dangote Refinery has begun exporting refined petroleum products to various countries, including Ghana, Togo, Cameroon, South Africa, Angola, and several European nations. This shift signals Nigeria’s growing role as a regional refining hub.

Amid concerns over fuel supply, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) recently refuted reports that it imported over 200 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in February 2025.

NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that while the company has not imported PMS this year, it retains the right to do so if the need arises.

“NNPCL is committed to ensuring energy security in Nigeria. If fuel shortages occur, we will intervene through imports to stabilize the market,” Soneye stated.

As Nigeria continues its transition toward energy self-sufficiency, stakeholders have called for stronger regulatory measures to protect the refining sector from potential disruptions.