Dangote: House of Representatives Demands Suspension of NMDPRA CEO Pending Investigation into Allegations

The House of Representatives has demanded the suspension of the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) pending a thorough investigation into allegations against the Authority.

The call for suspension came after Hon. Esosa Iyawe introduced a motion of urgent public importance, highlighting concerns over recent comments made by the NMDPRA CEO. Hon. Iyawe emphasized that fuel quality impacts engine performance and environmental health, stressing the importance of using ultra-low sulfur diesel to avoid damage and pollution.

He outlined that high sulfur content in diesel fuels poses significant risks, including damage to engines and adverse environmental and health effects. Sulfur dioxide, according to Iyawe, can lead to respiratory issues, lung damage, and even cancer. He noted that many governments worldwide enforce strict sulfur emission standards, which diesel producers must follow.

The controversy escalated when the NMDPRA CEO claimed that diesel from the Dangote refinery was inferior and contained high sulfur levels, allegedly between 650 to 1,200 parts per million (ppm). In response, Dangote requested a product test, which was supervised by House members. The test results indicated Dangote’s diesel had a sulfur content of 87.6 ppm, while imported diesel samples had sulfur levels exceeding 1,800 ppm and 2,000 ppm respectively, disproving the NMDPRA CEO’s claims.

Hon. Iyawe criticized the CEO’s statements as unfounded and damaging to local refineries. He alleged that the NMDPRA has been issuing licenses to traders importing high-sulfur diesel, posing health risks and financial losses to Nigerians. The allegations have sparked widespread outrage, with many viewing the CEO’s remarks as undermining local industry and supporting harmful imports.

The House of Representatives has condemned the CEO’s actions as unprofessional and unpatriotic, urging for his suspension until the investigation is complete.