Dangote petrol: MURIC blasts NNPC for anti-people, immoral decision

The Muslims Rights Concern (MURIC) has criticised the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC) for allegedly undermining the anticipated benefits of the Dangote refinery’s product.

In a statement released on Friday evening by MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, the organisation condemned the NNPC’s recent actions following a fact-finding visit to Dangote Refinery by a 17-man team on Thursday. MURIC has called on the Federal Government to allow the refinery to operate freely and protect it from interference.

MURIC expressed disappointment over the NNPC’s decision to raise fuel prices and restrict the Dangote Refinery from supplying to other marketers. The organisation had hoped that the start of operations at the Dangote Refinery would lead to a significant reduction in petroleum prices.

During their visit to the Dangote Refinery at Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, MURIC members were granted access to self-recognition. The visit, which took place on Thursday, 5th September 2024, was intended to gather information ahead of a forthcoming press conference.

MURIC’s statement highlighted the severe economic hardship faced by Nigerians, exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies and rising inflation. The organisation criticised the NNPC for increasing petrol prices from N617 to N897 and monopolising the distribution of Dangote’s fuel.

The statement described the NNPC’s actions as “anti-people, immoral, and lacking in conscience,” arguing that the price increase and supply restriction undermine the benefits that the Dangote Refinery could bring to the masses. MURIC questioned the NNPC’s role and contribution to the refinery and expressed frustration over the perceived injustice of the situation.