Tinubu Faces Mounting Pressure Over Nigeria's Failing Refineries

President Bola Tinubu is currently under significant pressure to address the operational failures of Nigeria's refineries, particularly those located in Port Harcourt and Kaduna.

This situation has drawn attention from various advocacy groups and coalitions, who are demanding accountability and immediate action.

The Energy Reforms Advocates (ERA) and the APC Youth Vanguard for Change (APCYVC) have been vocal in their criticism, calling for an investigation into the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.

These groups have expressed frustration over the $2.9 billion allocated in 2021 for refinery rehabilitation, which has yet to produce tangible results. They attribute these failures to "systemic corruption" and a lack of accountability within NNPCL, stating that despite substantial funds, the refineries remain non-functional.

The ongoing issues with the refineries have broader implications for Nigeria's economy and public health. The continued importation of adulterated fuel has not only hindered economic stability but also posed health risks to Nigerians.

Vehicles and agricultural machinery have suffered damage due to substandard fuel, exacerbating the hardships faced by many citizens.

In response to these challenges, ERA and APCYVC have urged President Tinubu to initiate a probe into NNPCL's leadership and hold Kyari accountable for the stalled reforms.

They propose several immediate actions, including revamping Nigeria's regulatory framework, reactivating local refineries, ensuring transparency in subsidy management, and strengthening public access to information.

The Coalition of Niger Delta Youths Against Poverty, Insecurity & Environmental Degradation (CONDYAPIED) has also demanded Kyari's resignation, citing his failure to operationalize the Port Harcourt refinery by the promised September 2024 deadline.

Engr. Jonas Igariga, the Coalition Coordinator, stated, “In a sane society where leaders have a conscience, the likes of Mele Kyari should… tender their resignation and apologise to Nigerians.”