The leadership of the Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) has applauded the leadership style of the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, in revamping Nigeria’s oil sector.

MOSIEND, in a statement by its National President, Kennedy Tonjo West, disclosed that the hike in fuel prices is because of how reckless the previous administration handled matters.

West said: “During the past administration, all Nigerians knew the monies being sunk in the refinery would be wasted because the government didn’t have the will to revive the refinery. So, how can you wake up suddenly to say it is Sen. Lokpobiri that’s responsible?”

It would be noted that MOSIEND recently called on the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) to tender an unreserved apology to Lokpobiri over what it described as an unwarranted attack on his personality.

IYC had blamed Lokpobiri for the current fuel crisis in the nation and the delay in the kickoff of the Port Harcourt refinery.

While countering IYC, West further noted that “the refinery is not directly under the Minister’s purview but NNPCL, so why would one try to rubbish him over what is not his making and to what gains?”

The group noted that Lokpobiri is however responsible for the massive growth in the petroleum sector since his assumption of office in 2023.

The group also noted that Lokpobiri has since his assumption as Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Initiated measures to revamp and expand domestic refining capacity to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and enhance energy security.

The statement from MOSIEND also highlighted the “successful completion of rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery (mechanical section), progressive supervision and monitoring of Warri and Kaduna refineries rehabilitation works towards meeting schedule deadlines, successful approval of  four modular refineries in line with government’s drive to boost local refinery capacity, amongst others, as part of the successes achieved under the minister.

MOSIEND also stated that under Lokpobiri’s stewardship, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources further endeavours to foster domestic talent and capitalise on strategic partnerships with industry players and energy firms.

It also stated that efforts are underway to fortify local content development, as underscored by the inauguration of the Governing Council of the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board.