…firm legal action to be taken against those spreading falsehood – NNPCL threatens
… NNPCL trying to be clever by claiming that some of the fuel at their stations is from us – Dangote officials
BY SAM OTUONYE
NNPCL and Dangote have been enmeshed in what seems to be an unending imbroglio since the completion and commissioning of Dangote refinery with accusations and counter-accusations over supply, pricing, quality of product and importation of products.
Dangote had raised an alarm over crude supply cuts, alleging that NNPCL was starving their refinery crude product while supplying to International Oil Companies (IOCs).
Periodic price ‘war’ has also been on the rage as NNPCL marks Dangote with petrol price reduction. In the last two months Dangote refinery has reduced petrol price as NNPCL followed suit.
Refining and importation of substandard products have added to the litany of allegations with Dangote claiming superiority of product over NNPCL. Last year the House of Representatives Committee on Oil and Gas had intervened with a laboratory test of Dangote refined petrol at the prompting of NNPCL’s allegation of substandard nature of Dangote product.
Weekend, NNPCL released a statement refuting a viral video circulating online alleging that NNPCL’s petrol burns faster than Dangote’s, ostensibly presenting Dangote’s product as superior to NNPCL’s. It noted that some products sold at NNPCL were bought from Dangote, insinuating that the said product in the video could be Dangote’s.
A content creator claimed he purchased a litre of fuel from Dangote Refinery at ₦925 per litre at an MRS Filling Station in Alapere, Lagos, and another from an NNPCL station at Ojodu Berger for ₦945 per litre. He then tested both fuels in identical new generators, noting that the NNPCL-sourced fuel lasted 17 minutes, while the Dangote fuel ran for 33 minutes.
The video quickly gained attention, with many Nigerians sharing similar experiences regarding fuel quality from different suppliers.
NNPCL emphasized that its fuel is carefully formulated for optimal efficiency, durability, and environmental sustainability. The company further noted that a significant portion of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sold at its stations in Lagos was sourced from Dangote Refinery, a strategic partner in local fuel production.
The statement said: “The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd strongly refutes the false and misleading allegations made in a viral video circulating online, which claims that NNPC fuel does not last. This assertion is baseless and entirely unfounded, originating from unverified and amateur research that lacks credibility, accuracy, and professional oversight.
“NNPC Ltd reaffirms that its fuel is carefully formulated with one of the best compositions, ensuring optimal efficiency, durability, and environmental sustainability for consumers.
“Furthermore, it is important to emphasize that a significant percentage of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sold at NNPC retail stations in Lagos—where this deceptive video was created—is sourced from the Dangote Refinery, a strategic partner in promoting local production and energy security. Dangote Refinery adheres to strict industry standards, guaranteeing the quality of petroleum products supplied to our consumers.
“This misleading video represents yet another desperate attempt by economic saboteurs to misinform the public and tarnish NNPC Ltd’s reputation. We will not tolerate deliberate misinformation designed to undermine our operations and mislead Nigerians.
“Henceforth, NNPC Ltd will take firm legal action against individuals or groups who intentionally spread falsehoods about our brand and operations. Those engaged in such malicious activities will be held fully accountable under the law.
“We urge the public to disregard such fabricated content and rely on verified sources for accurate information. NNPC Ltd remains steadfast in its mission to ensure fuel availability, affordability, and quality for all Nigerians while maintaining global industry standards.
But in a quick reaction Dangote Refinery officials have dismissed claims that the questionable fuel sold at an NNPCL filling station came from their facility, insisting that Nigerians can easily differentiate their product from others.
Despite NNPCL’s statement, officials from Dangote Refinery questioned why their name was dragged into the controversy, pointing out that the NNPCL also imports fuel and operates its own refineries.
“Not all NNPCL fuel comes from Dangote Refinery,” one official stated. “They are trying to be clever by claiming that some of the fuel at their stations is from us while at the same time giving ‘fake accolades.’”
Another source suggested that NNPCL might be attempting to shift blame or create a distraction.
“The NNPCL may be trying to drag the refinery into a controversy, but that is unnecessary. They should be ignored. Have they come out to say they are not importing fuel? If not, what are we talking about?”