Concerned marketers and stakeholders around the country has called on the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMPDRA) to strengthen oversight of fuel standards entering the country whether imported, refined or retailed and dispensed all over the country. warning against the influx of contaminated petroleum products that may have lacked proper octane ratings, sulphur contents and other pollutants.
In a statement issued to newsmen, the marketers expressed concern that substandard fuel may have been imported, refined or sold in the country pose serious risks to consumers, vehicles, and public safety.

The marketers emphasized that the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) mandates strict adherence to safety standards, and approved guidelines for fuel quality, including octane ratings, sulphur contents etc. They noted that fuel with poor octane ratings can damage engines, compromise efficiency, and increase the risk of fire outbreaks.

Recent incidents of fires at filling stations across the country were cited as evidence of the dangers posed by contaminated fuel. “The standards of fuel imported, refined, supplied and distributed should not be compromised to the benefits of any player in the industry,” the statement read, underscoring the need for accountability.
The stakeholders urged the NMPDRA leadership under Engineer Saidu Aliyu to carry all stakeholders along as stipulated by section 216 of the PIA. They argued that transporters, refinery owners, and importers all have roles stipulated under the PIA. “The Chief Regulator was appointed to execute this mandate,” the group asserted.

The statement further stressed that Nigerians deserve value for money when purchasing fuel. “Ultra-modern refineries, and depot facilities that import fuel must provide fuel with good octane ratings. It is not proper for such facilities to compromise standards,” the consortium said.

They urged the NMPDRA to examine both imported and locally refined petroleum products to ensure compliance with safety and quality benchmarks.

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, on Thursday convened a strategic meeting with civil society organisations to discuss issues affecting the state and strengthen collaboration with the government.

During the engagement, the commissioner briefed participants on the ongoing initiatives of the administration of Abba Kabir Yusuf, noting that civil society groups play a critical role in governance and policy development.

Waiya reiterated the government’s commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that civil society actors remain key partners in promoting sustainable development across Kano.

He described civil society organisations as an important constituency, emphasizing the need to deepen partnerships, sustain open communication, and build stronger cooperation between government institutions and non-state actors.

Participants at the meeting described the session as interactive and forward-looking, as stakeholders exchanged ideas on policy priorities and strategies aimed at advancing development in the state.

The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by both the government and civil society groups to continue working together in promoting transparency, accountability, and development initiatives in Kano State.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Rivers State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has raised serious concerns over an alleged plot by the government to arrest a prominent leader of the party and former Minister of Transportation, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.

The party’s State Publicity Secretary, Chief Luckyman Egila, made the allegation during an interview with LEADERSHIP in Port Harcourt on Friday. He claimed that the ADC, positioning itself as a leading opposition force, has become a primary target of the administration.

Responding to questions about widespread speculation regarding Mr. Amaechi’s potential arrest, Egila stated that such rumours are credible within the nation’s current political context.

“While it may be termed a rumour, we are in a political arena where such possibilities cannot be dismissed,” Egila said. He drew a parallel to a recent incident involving a key opposition figure, adding, “We must recall that Nasir El-Rufai was recently detained by the Department of State Services (DSS). It appears they are systematically targeting anyone perceived as opposition.”

Egila elaborated on the ADC’s self-perceived role in the national political landscape, suggesting that its growing influence is the motive behind the alleged plot.

“As things stand in Nigeria today, the African Democratic Congress is emerging as the main opposition political party capable of challenging the ruling party. We cannot simply write this off as a baseless rumour; there is a deliberate scheme to incapacitate anyone with the capacity to oppose or defeat them in an election.”

Despite the serious allegations, Egila was careful to reaffirm the party’s commitment to lawful conduct. He noted that while the party has received intelligence regarding the purported plan, the specifics of the operation—whether it would be a public arrest or a covert action—remain unclear.

“The African Democratic Congress is a law-abiding political party,” Egila stated. “We are aware of the intelligence suggesting this move, but we do not know if they intend to apprehend him publicly or through other means.”