Reps dissolve panel probing petrol queues, blame ‘negative media coverage’

The leadership of the house of representatives has dissolved an ad-hoc committee probing the importation of adulterated petroleum products into Nigeria and the resurgence of queues.

The committee was led by Ikenga Ugochinyere, a lawmaker from Imo state.

In a notice to lawmakers on Monday, Akin Rotimi, house spokesperson, said the house leadership decided to dissolve the committee because of the “widespread negative media coverage”.

Rotimi said the lower legislative chamber would form a new committee which would have members who have “industry knowledge, proven competence, and unquestionable integrity”.

“In light of the controversies and widespread negative media coverage, the Leadership of the House of Representatives has resolved to dissolve the ad-hoc Joint Downstream and Midstream Committee, which was tasked with investigating allegations of the importation of adulterated petroleum products, the non-availability of crude oil for domestic refineries, and broader threats to Nigeria’s energy security,” the notice reads.

“To prevent undue exposure of the House’s image and that of the Joint Committee, the Leadership will form a new ad-hoc committee.

“The chairpersons and deputies of the respective oil and gas committees will be included in the membership of this new ad-hoc committee.

“The House is firmly committed to thoroughly investigating the issues raised, determining the facts, and advancing Nigeria’s interests.

“The formation of the new ad-hoc committee highlights the dedication of the House to effectively address these critical concerns and uphold the highest standards of parliamentary oversight.”

On June 23, Devakumar Edwin, vice-president, oil and gas at Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), accused the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) of granting licences indiscriminately for the importation of dirty diesel and aviation fuel.

Two days later, NMDPRA denied the allegation.