The newly revived Port Harcourt Refinery is set for a 30-day maintenance shutdown, triggering accusations of economic sabotage from local marketers who claim the move is designed to benefit private refiners. While NNPC insists the exercise follows global best practices, host communities warn of impending fuel crises and job losses.
- Imminent Shutdown: NNPC confirms 30-day maintenance for "safety and sustainability" despite refinery operating at 70% capacity
- Sabotage Allegations: Eleme/Okrika marketers accuse coordinator Bayo Adenrele of deliberately starving the refinery of crude to benefit private competitors
- Economic Fears: Communities warn shutdown could spike fuel prices, disengage local workers
- Capacity Reality: Refinery currently produces 1.4M litres of PMS daily through blending, not full refining
- Political Fallout: Marketers petition the petroleum minister and, Senate President for intervention
