By Luminous Jannam

A large crowd of activists flooded Abuja’s Three Arms Zone, yesterday, demanding sweeping reforms in the oil sector.

Organised by the APC Solidarity and Development Forum and comprising youth and civil society organisations, the protesters expressed frustration over soaring fuel prices, persistent fuel scarcity, and the intensifying economic hardship affecting Nigerians.

Speaking to journalists during the protest held near the National Assembly Complex, group leaders Kabir Matazu and Danielsi Momoh described the ongoing fuel crisis as a reflection of systemic failures within the industry.

In a letter addressed to Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, they argued that despite repeated assurances from authorities, shortages and high prices continue to persist, impacting citizens and eroding public trust in the government’s management of oil resources.

The protesters highlighted the lack of operational local refineries, despite a $4 billion government investment, as a significant oversight and management failure.

They contended that the government’s inaction not only undermines the administration’s ‘renewed hope’ agenda but also underscores the need for a leadership change focused on accountability.

Additionally, they pointed out the absence of a clear plan to revitalise and operate local refineries as a major concern.

Concerns over unresolved corruption within the sector were also raised, with calls on the National Assembly to implement stringent measures to prevent the importation of substandard petroleum products, which threaten public health and safety.

The protesters demanded the establishment of an investigative committee to address alleged misconduct, with any official implicated prosecuted the through anti-corruption agencies.
They further called on the National Assembly to act decisively to reform the industry, ensuring it operates efficiently and supports the nation’s economic welfare.

The protest leaders stated, “We demand a clear roadmap for the revitalization and operationalisation of our local refineries to ensure self-sufficiency in petroleum products and reduce reliance on imports.

“The National Assembly must enact and enforce strict regulations to prevent the importation of substandard petroleum products, protecting the health and safety of Nigerians.

“We urge the President to appoint a qualified individual who possesses the integrity and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of the oil sector and restore public confidence.
“We call for the immediate establishment of a committee to investigate the ongoing allegations of sleaze and fraud within the oil sector.”

Furthermore, we demand that those responsible be held accountable and handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for prosecution.”