National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for a change of leadership in Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
Its call was prompted by the uncomplimentary comments of the agency’s chief executive officer (CEO), Mr Ahmed Farouk, on Dangote Refinery.
Farouk had alleged that Dangote Refinery is producing substandard products. This claim was perceived by many Nigerians as an attack on Dangote Refinery with the intention to sabotage local refining of petroleum products in other to perpetuate the importation of refined products.
In a press release signed by the secretary-general of NANS, Comrade David Barieka, a copy of which was seen by journalists, the group expressed outrage over Farouk’s comments and insisted that if nothing is done to remove him immediately, they’ll mobilise their members and Nigerian youths to protest massively until the right thing is done
Barieka said, “We strongly condemn Mr. Ahmed’s attempts to de-market Dangote Refinery, the only indigenous petroleum refining industry in Nigeria at a time when our nation lacks functioning refineries. This is a threat to the future of Nigerian youths and students, and we perceive it as a ploy by the subsidy cabals to maintain their grip on our nation, perpetuating a system that has held us hostage for far too long.
“Mr President, we bring to your attention the grave implications of Mr. Ahmed’s actions. His stance is not only misguided but also detrimental to Nigeria’s progress, economic growth, and energy security. By attempting to stifle the Dangote Refinery, he is, in effect, sabotaging our nation’s efforts to become self-sufficient in petroleum production and refining.
“As patriots, we urge you to take immediate action against Mr. Ahmed’s wrongdoings. His actions are unacceptable, and we demand his removal as CEO of NMDPRA, as we cannot afford to be passive. At the same time, our nation’s future is compromised by individuals who prioritise personal interests over national progress.
“NANS will mobilise Nigerian students and youths to protest against this injustice massively. It shall be the mother of all protests, and we will relocate the NANS headquarters to the NMDPRA office until our yearnings are answered. We will not relent until our demands are met and our nation’s interest is prioritized,” he said.
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