Dirty fuel probe: Reps urge NMDPRA, SON to test imported petrol to meet standard sulphur level
…Dissolve committee amid internal strife
By Seun Ibiyemi
The House of Representatives has dissolved the existing ad-hoc joint downstream and midstream committee, which it set up to investigate the importation of contaminated petroleum products, the lack of crude oil for domestic refineries, and other crucial energy security concerns.
The deputy speaker, Benjamin Kalu addressed the committee’s inauguration on behalf of speaker Tajudeen Abbas, voicing concerns about the return of long fuel queues at petrol stations, the rising cost of petrol and the lack of crude oil feedstock for domestic refineries.
Kalu stated that the investigation would also cover other issues affecting the sector, stressing the importance of adhering to global standards for the quality of petroleum products imported into Nigeria.
He emphasised that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) must test all imported petrol in laboratories to ensure it meets standard sulphur and octane levels.
“It is unacceptable that the petrol imported into the country contains high sulphur levels, is lead, and has low octane levels. This has previously led to socio-economic losses, including damage to vehicle engines.
“One critical aspect we must address is the infrastructure for quality assurance that enables robust testing of petroleum products with full adherence to the standard practice for manual sampling,” Kalu added.
He tasked the joint committee with examining the quality and quantity of laboratories used by both the NMDPRA and SON for their tests, and to provide actionable feedback.
Since the investigation began, the House has encountered controversies, with lawmakers dividing into various groups and factions.
The ad-hoc committee, led by Ikenga Ugochinyere, chairman of the House committee on petroleum downstream, had been advocating for the dismissal of the Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd, Mele Kyari, while another faction of 50 lawmakers had called for his retention.
Lawmakers led by Billy Osawaru (Edo State) argued that calling for Kyari’s dismissal during an ongoing investigation goes against parliamentary norms.
However, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, , the House spokesperson, Rotimi Akin announced that the ad-hoc committee had been dissolved and a new one would be formed.
He said, “The leadership of the House of Representatives has resolved to dissolve the current ad-hoc joint downstream and midstream committee.
“Initially tasked with investigating the importation of adulterated petroleum products, the non-availability of crude oil for domestic refineries, and other critical energy security issues, this committee will be succeeded by a newly constituted ad-hoc committee with the same mandate.
“To ensure the efficacy and independence of this investigation, the new committee will consist of honourable members selected for their expertise, competence, and integrity.
“The House remains committed to addressing these vital issues and ensuring thorough oversight. Further details on the new committee’s operations will be provided in due course,” he added.
