Niger Delta Youths Express Anger Over Continued Delay in Resumption of Port Harcourt Refinery

 

The failure of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, to commence fuel production at the Port Harcourt Refinery in Rivers State has attracted the anger of the Niger Delta Youth Network, NDYN.

 

The group lamented that despite numerous promises, the refinery has failed to function.

 

Recall that the refinery had failed to commence operations after about six postponements as of August this year.

 

In a statement by its convener, Dakuku Francis, the youth group lamented that the recurring failure by the NNPCL “confirms that a cabal within the company is deliberately scheming to exploit the region’s crude oil producers”.

 

The group demanded action from the company, insisting that there are concerns that the repeated delays may be part of plots by the NNPCL to exploit the region’s resources.

 

Francis alleged plans by stakeholders in the sector to utilize the Port Harcourt refinery as a blending company.

 

He stated that the failure to provide a clear timeline for the commencement of fuel production has created uncertainty and distrust among stakeholders.

 

Francis said: “The NNPCL’s lack of transparency and accountability has exacerbated regional tensions. We are demanding answers and action from the company, the repeated delays are part of a larger plot to exploit our region’s resources.