Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) for what he termed a disrespectful approach in inviting him to tour the rehabilitated Port Harcourt and Warri refineries. Speaking through his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo described the invitation as an affront to his office and person, pointing out the lack of a formal communication as of January 2, 2024.
"Is that the right way to invite a former president of the country? Who says Baba has even seen the statement or read the news? It is a total disrespect for the office of the former president," Akinyemi stated.
The invitation, announced via a public statement by NNPCL spokesperson Olufemi Soneye, has drawn widespread attention, particularly against the backdrop of the former president’s remarks on Channels Television about the nation's failed refinery management. Obasanjo had recounted his administration's efforts to privatize refineries, which were reversed by his successor, Musa Yar’Adua.
According to Obasanjo, his government secured a $750 million offer from Aliko Dangote to run the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries through a Public–Private Partnership (PPP). However, the offer was rejected by Yar’Adua, who, relying on NNPC assurances, opted for the corporation to manage the refineries instead.
"Since that time, more than $2 billion has been squandered on the refineries, and they still would not work," Obasanjo lamented. He contrasted the inefficiency of government-managed refineries with the anticipated success of Dangote's privately owned facility, expressing confidence in its potential to transform the sector.
In defense, Soneye highlighted the progress made under NNPCL’s restructuring, asserting that the refineries had undergone comprehensive overhauls to meet global standards. "We extend an open invitation to former President Obasanjo for a tour of the rehabilitated refineries to witness firsthand the progress made under the new NNPC Limited," Soneye stated.
However, skeptics remain unconvinced. Many Nigerians question the efficacy of the government's efforts, citing decades of mismanagement and failed promises. The controversy underscores the long-standing debate over public versus private management of critical national assets, leaving observers to ponder whether the NNPCL's claims of progress can finally translate into tangible results.
Tags
News