Group criticises Reps spokesman over NNPCL, NMDPRA comments

The Energy Transparency Initiative (ETI) has expressed dismay over recent statements made by Deputy Spokesman of the Federal House of Representatives, Philip Agbese, regarding the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

In a statement by its convener, Ganzallo Gbenga, and programme officer, Chinelo Ochiaga, the ETI described Agbese’s allegations against NNPCL and NMDPRA as misleading and a departure from his responsibilities as a federal lawmaker. Agbese had accused the two regulatory bodies of attempting to undermine the Dangote refinery.

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“While we are not the mouthpiece for either regulatory authority, we cannot ignore the misleading nature of Agbese’s statements,” the statement read. “As an organisation with over a decade of advocacy for transparency and accountability in the sector, we are well aware of the issues at the heart of the recent dispute between Dangote Refinery and the regulatory authorities.”

The ETI criticised Agbese for abandoning his duty as a representative of the people and instead acting as an advocate for the Dangote Refinery. They argued that his role obliges him to be impartial, especially in matters involving multiple stakeholders.

“In the House of Representatives, his voice has never been heard, no bills sponsored, no motions moved, and no empowerment activities carried out for his constituency,” the statement added.

The ETI highlighted that Agbese’s actions prioritise the interests of a single entity over the broader welfare of Nigerians. They stressed that the Dangote refinery, despite its significance, represents individual business interests that may not align with national interests. The apparent bias demonstrated by Agbese, they argued, risks neglecting the broader implications of the refinery’s operations on the general populace and undermines the regulatory framework designed to ensure fairness and transparency.

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“It is imperative to remind the lawmaker that his call for the dismissal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL and the Authority Chief Executive of NMDPRA is not only misplaced but lacks merit,” the statement asserted.

The ETI urged all parties involved in the NNPCL and Dangote feud to maintain silence, criticising Agbese for taking sides and making uncalled-for statements despite being a member of the committee set up by the House to investigate the surrounding allegations.

“The Energy Transparency Initiative said Agbese needs to be educated on how both the NNPCL and NMDPRA operate and refrain from meddling in affairs beyond his understanding,” the statement continued. “The era where Agbese blackmails public institutions will not succeed with government agencies as they won’t succumb to such tactics.”

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The group further noted that the targeted agencies have outlived various governments and individuals and will continue to do so despite corporate or legislative blackmail. They called for Agbese’s resignation as the Deputy Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, suggesting he apply for employment at NNPCL if he wishes to defend them, especially now that recruitment is ongoing.

“We call on the leadership of the House of Representatives to address this matter with the seriousness it deserves. Members should focus on their legislative duties and refrain from interfering in regulatory issues they do not fully understand,” the ETI urged.

The Energy Transparency Initiative stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of the legislative process and public trust, urging the House leadership to rein in Agbese and his associates to ensure effective functioning of regulatory bodies and uphold transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector.