The House of Representatives has decided to dissolve the ad-hoc Joint Downstream and Midstream Committee, which was investigating the importation of adulterated petroleum products, the lack of crude oil for domestic refineries, and other significant energy security issues.
According to The PUNCH, at the committee’s inauguration the Monday before last, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, representing Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, expressed concern over the reappearance of fuel queues, rising Premium Motor Spirit prices, and the scarcity of crude oil for local refineries.
Kalu emphasized that the investigation would cover related issues affecting the sector, highlighting the importance of adhering to global standards for imported petroleum products.
He stressed that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority and the Standards Organisation of Nigeria must ensure that all imported petrol undergoes rigorous laboratory testing to meet standard sulfur and octane levels.
“It is unacceptable that the petrol imported into the country contains high sulfur levels, is leaded, and has low octane levels. This has previously led to socio-economic losses, including damage to vehicle engines,” Kalu said.
He directed the committee to examine the quality and number of laboratories used by the NMDPRA and SON for their tests and to provide actionable feedback.
Since the investigation commenced, the House has faced controversies, with lawmakers divided into factions.
The committee, chaired by Ikenga Ugochinyere, had been pushing for the removal of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari.
In contrast, another group of 50 lawmakers advocated for his retention. Billy Osawaru (Edo State) criticized the push for Kyari’s dismissal during an ongoing investigation, deeming it contrary to parliamentary norms.
On Monday, House Spokesperson Rotimi Akin announced that the current ad-hoc committee would be dissolved and replaced by a new one with the same mandate.
“The Leadership of the House of Representatives has resolved to dissolve the current ad-hoc Joint Downstream and Midstream Committee,” Akin stated. “This committee, initially tasked with investigating the importation of adulterated petroleum products, the non-availability of crude oil for domestic refineries, and other critical energy security issues, will be succeeded by a newly constituted ad-hoc committee with the same mandate.”
Akin continued, “To ensure the efficacy and independence of this investigation, the new committee will consist of members selected for their expertise, competence, and integrity. The House remains committed to addressing these vital issues and ensuring thorough oversight. Further details on the new committee’s operations will be provided in due course.”
