By Niyi Jacobs
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed reports alleging that the Port Harcourt Refinery, which was re-streamed two months ago, has ceased operations. According to a press release issued by the company, the refinery remains fully operational, and preparations for the day’s loading activities are ongoing.
This clarification follows media reports suggesting that petrol lifting at the refinery had stalled since December 13, with sources, including a member of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), claiming no activities were taking place at the plant’s 18-arm loading bay.
The reports further indicated that while tanker drivers awaited operations to resume, expectations were that petrol lifting might recommence by December 23.
NNPC, however, categorically denied these assertions, stating that the facility’s operations were recently verified by former Group Managing Directors of the corporation. The company described the claims as false and attempts to create artificial scarcity to exploit Nigerians.
“Members of the public are advised to discountenance such reports as they are the figments of the imagination of those who want to create artificial scarcity and rip off Nigerians,” the statement read.
NNPC had earlier announced that the refinery, rehabilitated at a cost of $1.5 billion, had commenced petrol lifting on November 26, with over 200 trucks reportedly loaded. However, skepticism arose when sources alleged that only 10 trucks lifted petrol on the inauguration day, possibly from old stock.
Despite the controversy, NNPC maintains that the Port Harcourt Refinery is operating smoothly, reassuring Nigerians of its commitment to meeting energy needs.
