NMDPRA protecting adulterated fuel importers in Nigeria — Expert raises alarm

Energy consumers’ advocate and expert, Abdulrahman Sani Ibrahim, has accused the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, of protecting “adulterated” fuel importers at the expense of Nigerians.

He made the allegation in a statement on Friday.

Ibrahim said NMDPRA had failed to take decisive action against major marketers involved in the importation of adulterated petrol products into Nigeria.

He alleged an influx of blended fuel from Dubai and other countries, which he said is posing a serious threat to consumers and the economy.

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According to him, poor-quality petroleum products could damage vehicles and machinery, increase operating costs, and impose additional financial burdens on Nigerians already struggling with high energy and transportation costs.

He called on NMDPRA to immediately intensify surveillance and testing of imported petroleum products at ports, depots, and retail outlets.

“This is no longer a matter that can be treated with regulatory caution or empty threats. The NMDPRA knows the concerns that have been raised about the continuous importation of blended products from Dubai and other countries, and it has even warned that marketers involved in such practices could be denied petroleum supplies.

” If the regulator is aware of these activities and still allows them to continue, then it is failing in its fundamental responsibility to protect Nigerian consumers,” he stated.

Recall that Dangote Refinery had blamed NMDPRA’s continued issuance of import licences to marketers for the rise in fuel imports.

The mega refinery had threatened to halt the sale of petroleum products to importers.