By Joke Kujenya
MEDIA REPORTS alleging the Old Port Harcourt Refinery’s shutdown have sparked public concern over Nigeria’s fuel supply.
Contrary to claims of halted operations, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has dismissed these reports as false and baseless.
According to NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi O. Soneye, the refinery remains operational, with preparations for daily loading ongoing.
He noted that former Group Managing Directors of the NNPC recently inspected and verified its functionality.
Meanwhile, an anonymous source from the Petroleum Tanker Drivers had alleged that petrol lifting at the refinery ceased on December 13, 2024.
He said that drivers stationed at the loading bay have reportedly been waiting for days, anticipating resumption.
The $1.5 billion rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, which began petrol lifting in late November 2024, was hailed as a milestone in addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges.
However, the NNPC urged Nigerians to disregard unfounded reports, attributing them to groups attempting to create artificial scarcity and exploit citizens.
Officially responding to these allegations, NNPC said the claims are unfounded.
