NNPC Refutes Claims on Port Harcourt Refinery Operations: Setting the Record Straight
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed allegations made by Timothy Mgbere, Secretary of the Alesa Community Stakeholders, concerning the recent resumption of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery.
Mgbere, during an interview on Arise Television on Thursday, alleged that the refinery’s truck-out operations involved petroleum products from old stock rather than newly refined products. He further insinuated that the refinery’s activities were misleading and lacking transparency.
In response, NNPC Ltd, through its Spokesperson Olufemi Soneye, issued a statement on Friday describing Mgbere’s assertions as a “crass display of ignorance” and providing detailed clarifications to dispel the misinformation.
Addressing the Allegations: Fact vs. Fiction
NNPC’s Appeal to the Public
NNPC urged the general public to disregard Mgbere’s claims, labeling them as baseless and driven by either misinformation or deliberate mischief.
“We call on the general public to disregard the claims of the self-acclaimed ‘community person,’ which are obviously borne out of sheer mischief and a blatant display of ignorance,” Soneye emphasized.
The company reiterated its commitment to transparency, operational efficiency, and the revitalization of Nigeria’s refineries to meet the nation’s energy needs.
Port Harcourt Refinery: A Step Forward
Earlier this week, NNPC announced that the Port Harcourt Refinery had commenced operations at 70% capacity, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to restore local refining capabilities. This development is part of a broader strategy to rehabilitate the nation’s refineries and reduce the importation of petroleum products.
As NNPC continues to ramp up operations, the focus remains on achieving full capacity utilization, improving product quality, and ensuring the stability of fuel supply across the country.
Conclusion
The Port Harcourt Refinery’s operational progress represents a critical step towards energy self-sufficiency in Nigeria. While misinformation may arise, NNPC’s transparent communication underscores its dedication to providing accurate information and fostering public trust.
As the refinery continues to scale up its operations, the public is encouraged to seek verified information and disregard unfounded claims that could undermine the nation’s energy sector reforms.
