Protesters under the banner of Partners for National Economic Progress (PANEP) marched through Kaduna on Monday, urging President Bola Tinubu to safeguard Nigeria’s local refining industry from what they described as “economic sabotage.”
Carrying placards reading “Support Local Refining” and “Protect Dangote Refinery,” the demonstrators called on the Federal Government to prioritise domestic production and curb practices they believe undermine national development.
PANEP leaders, Igwe Ude-Umanta and Dahiru Maishanu, alleged that “powerful interests” were working to keep Nigeria dependent on imported fuel, warning that such actions threaten the country’s push for self-sufficiency. Ude-Umanta accused some oil unions and importers of colluding with foreign actors to frustrate refinery operations, naming the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) as a key saboteur.
He argued that the government should take decisive action against those obstructing refinery progress and ensure that local refineries, including Dangote’s, receive crude oil at the same price as foreign facilities.
The group praised Dangote Refinery for its positive impact on fuel supply, noting early signs of reduced petrol and diesel prices. They also described the refinery’s success as a critical test of Tinubu’s commitment to industrial growth and economic reform.