As the impasse between the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and Dangote Refinery Limited intensifies, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for a change of leadership in the former following comments made by its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Ahmed Farouk against Dangote Refinery.
The embattled Mr. Ahmed Farouk had, a few days ago alleged that Dangote Refinery is producing substandard products, a claim which was found to be false and perceived by many Nigerians as an attack on Dangote Refinery with the intention of deliberately sabotaging 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 our correspondent, the group expressed outrage over Mr. Ahmed Farouk’s comments and insisted that if nothing is done to remove him immediately, they’ll mobilize their members and Nigerian youths to protest massively until the right thing is done
According to the release, “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 while our nation’s future is compromised by individuals who prioritize personal interests over national progress.
“NANS will mobilize Nigerian students and youths to massively protest against this injustice. 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”, the release ended
