Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has warned that those benefiting from fuel importation in Nigeria will likely attempt to sabotage the Dangote Petroleum Refinery. He praised the refinery as a positive development for both Nigerians and international investors but acknowledged that its success could threaten established interests in the fuel import business.
Obasanjo’s comments come in response to allegations by Dangote Group President Aliko Dangote, who has claimed that certain ‘mafias’ are trying to obstruct the $20 billion refinery project. Reports indicate that the refinery, along with other domestic refineries, has yet to purchase crude oil in naira, as per President Bola Tinubu’s directive to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.
In an interview with Financial Times, Obasanjo explained that those involved in oil importation may resist the shift towards domestic refining due to fears of losing their lucrative business. He also criticized Nigeria for relying heavily on oil, neglecting gas and agriculture, which he believes should have been central to the country’s economic strategy.
Obasanjo recalled his efforts to invite Shell to manage Nigeria’s refineries during his presidency, but the company declined due to concerns over corruption and poor maintenance.