The House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream) has resolved to launch a comprehensive investigation into the state of Nigeria’s refinery rehabilitation projects.
This follows a special session after reviewing numerous petitions and complaints from the general public.
The chairman of the committee, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere disclosed this in a statement, adding that petitions received by the committee include serious allegations of fraud, mismanagement, and misappropriation of public funds committed in course of the rehabilitation of the refineries.
He explained that the goal is to uncover why, despite heavy financial investments, the refineries remain non-functional, shut down, and surrounded by confusion and controversy.
He also said the committee is particularly concerned about the apparent lack of accountability from those assigned to monitor the progress—ranging from refinery managers to NNPC officials—who provided regular updates and site visits.
He said: “The House Committee, following a special session and after reviewing numerous petitions and complaints from the general public, has resolved to launch a comprehensive investigation into the state of Nigeria’s refineries rehabilitation projects.
“The committee noted that these petitions include serious allegations of fraud, mismanagement, and possible misappropriation of public funds committed to the rehabilitation of refineries.
“While acknowledging that relevant security and investigative agencies may already be handling aspects of the matter, its legislative responsibility to conduct a fact-finding exercise on behalf of the people. The goal is to uncover why, despite heavy financial investments, the refinery remains non-functional, shut down, and surrounded by confusion and controversy.
“The refineries are public assets belonging to the federation—jointly owned by both federal and state governments—and that it is the duty of the National Assembly to provide the Nigerian people with clear answers. Citizens are rightly asking: What happened? Was the public deceived? Was the project sabotaged?
“At the core of the committee’s inquiry is whether the refinery rehabilitation was executed according to the terms and technical specifications outlined in the contracts. If so, why is the facility not operational? If not, did the contractors fail? Were there consequences for non-performance? Was there evidence of misappropriation, shady dealings, or a breakdown in oversight?
“The committee is particularly concerned about the apparent lack of accountability from those assigned to monitor the progress—ranging from refinery managers to NNPC officials—who provided regular updates and site visits. At what point did these stakeholders realize the project was not viable, and why was funding continued? Was this a case of a failed vision from the start?
“Furthermore, the committee has received troubling allegations that by-products from the refinery were either misappropriated, undersold, or not properly accounted for. These include claims that some of the materials were used for image laundering and public relations, rather than being reinvested into the sector.
“In light of all these concerns—ranging from the shutdown itself, the failure of the project, the suspected misuse of funds, and the questionable handling of by-products—the committee has resolved to conduct a detailed investigation. This will include identifying those responsible and advising Parliament on the appropriate actions to take, ensuring transparency, accountability, and better management of national resources moving forward.”
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