The House of Representatives has wrapped up a three-day retreat aimed at preparing for a comprehensive investigation into the ongoing conflict between the Dangote Group and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), which has been intensifying for nearly two weeks.
The House reaffirmed its dedication to finding an amicable solution to the persistent issues between the Dangote Group and NUPENG.
They believe that the investigation, following the retreat will aid in the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited’s (NNPCL) acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing’s downstream assets and the upgrade of its refinery.
This effort aligns with a resolution passed by the House to revisit the matter after the initial report was dismissed.
Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere, Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), provided this assurance during the closing ceremony of the retreat held in Lagos.
He mentioned that the committee would thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the OVH/NNPCL acquisition, the challenges refinery owners face in securing crude supplies, issues related to premium pricing, and the condition of the refineries before and after their shutdown.
The retreat served as preparation for the upcoming full-scale investigation into NNPCL’s acquisition of OVH Energy Marketing’s downstream assets and refinery upgrade, following the House’s decision to re-examine the issue after rejecting the first report.
Attendees included federal lawmakers, industry stakeholders, union representatives, and regulatory bodies, all gathered to address growing concerns regarding alleged monopolistic practices, substandard petroleum products, and the marginalization of key players in the industry.
Rep. Ugochinyere clarified that the upcoming investigation would differ from the previous inquiry conducted by the former committee.
He stressed the committee’s commitment to implementing genuine reforms that promote efficiency, fairness, and competitiveness throughout the sector, noting that the retreat signifies a pivotal moment in legislative oversight of the industry.
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As the investigation begins, the public is encouraged to contribute their insights before lawmakers present their recommendations in the House.
Individuals with relevant information are urged to submit their input to the Clerk of the House Committee on Petroleum (Downstream).
Rep. Ugochinyere also highlighted that one significant cause of delays has been the failure of certain stakeholders to provide essential documents.
Nevertheless, the committee has decided to proceed with the investigation regardless of these submissions and fulfill its mandate from the House.
Additionally, the committee has pledged to mediate between the Dangote Group and NUPENG to prevent further escalation and ensure fairness.
