Protesters demand end to Nigeria’s "adulterated" fuel imports at NNPCL headquarters

Protesters stormed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) headquarters in Abuja on November 4, demanding an immediate halt to the alleged imports of "adulterated" fuel.

The demonstration, led by the Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN) and the Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal, follows widespread public anger over persistent fuel shortages and the perceived declining quality of fuel, which has disrupted millions of lives.

According to the protestors, as cited by Nairametrics, the issue is both an inconvenience and a “national disgrace”. 

Speaking at the protest, CEFRAN leader Napoleon Otache highlighted growing fuel queues across Nigeria, causing hours-long waits for motorists, which they blame on poor quality control in fuel imports. According to the group, this situation is compounded by health and environmental hazards from vehicle damage and rising air pollution levels.

“We are here to address a crisis that has plagued our nation for far too long—one that strikes at the heart of our economy, our daily lives, and our fundamental rights,” Otache is quoted as saying. “This is not just a fuel crisis; it is a crisis of responsibility and accountability.” 

The protesters called on NNPCL and other involved entities to provide transparency on how substandard fuel continues to enter the Nigerian market despite quality assurances. They also called for significant reforms in domestic refining capacity to reduce reliance on potentially adulterated imported fuels.

The protest reflects recent criticisms from Aliko Dangote, chair of the recently launched Dangote Refinery, who has condemned the use of blending plants in Malta to produce low-quality fuel, allegedly intended for the Nigerian market.

Although NNPCL chief executive Mele Kyari denied any involvement by the state-owned oil company in such practices, stakeholders continue to question the regulatory oversight and fuel quality standards in Nigeria.

The activists argued that Nigeria, with its with natural resources and skilled manpower, should be self-sufficient in fuel refining. 

“Why should we be forced to suffer through the cost and hardship of unreliable fuel supplies while those responsible for the importation of substandard fuel continue to profit at our expense?” Otache is quoted as saying.