The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd has dismissed claims made in a viral video alleging that its fuel is of inferior quality and does not last.
The company described the allegations as false and misleading, insisting that the accusations were based on unverified and amateur research.
The viral video, which has sparked widespread discussions on social media, accused NNPC of selling low-quality fuel that burns out quickly, leading to increased expenses for motorists.
NNPC reacted swiftly to the video, issuing a statement on Saturday through its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi O. Soneye.
“The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd strongly refutes the false and misleading allegations made in a viral video circulating online, which claims that NNPC fuel does not last,” the statement read.
“This assertion is baseless and entirely unfounded, originating from unverified and amateur research that lacks credibility, accuracy, and professional oversight.”
The company assured Nigerians of the quality of its products, highlighting that its fuel is carefully formulated with optimal efficiency and environmental sustainability in mind.
Partnership with Dangote Refinery
NNPC emphasized that a significant portion of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sold at its retail stations in Lagos is sourced from the Dangote Refinery.
The statement noted, “Dangote Refinery adheres to strict industry standards, guaranteeing the quality of petroleum products supplied to our consumers.”
This partnership with Dangote Refinery is seen as a strategic move to promote local production and enhance energy security in Nigeria.
Industry experts have pointed out that the Dangote Refinery, which began operations recently, is recognized for its adherence to global standards in fuel production.
Allegations of Economic Sabotage
NNPC accused the creators of the viral video of attempting to mislead the public and tarnish its reputation.
“This misleading video represents yet another desperate attempt by economic saboteurs to misinform the public and tarnish NNPC Ltd’s reputation,” the statement said.
The company warned that it would not tolerate deliberate misinformation aimed at undermining its operations and misleading Nigerians.
Legal Action Threatened
In a strong response to the allegations, NNPC announced its intention to take legal action against individuals or groups spreading falsehoods about its brand and operations.
“Henceforth, NNPC Ltd will take firm legal action against individuals or groups who intentionally spread falsehoods about our brand and operations,” the statement read.
“Those engaged in such malicious activities will be held fully accountable under the law.”
The announcement has been seen as a move to deter further misinformation and protect the company’s image.
Public Reactions and Social Media Buzz
The viral video has sparked heated debates on social media, with many Nigerians sharing their experiences with fuel purchased from NNPC stations.
While some users supported the claims made in the video, others defended NNPC, pointing to the general increase in fuel prices and economic challenges as reasons for perceived inefficiencies.
NNPC urged the public to disregard fabricated content and to rely on verified sources for accurate information.
“We urge the public to disregard such fabricated content and rely on verified sources for accurate information,” the statement advised.
NNPC also reiterated its commitment to ensuring fuel availability, affordability, and quality for Nigerians while maintaining global industry standards.
Background on NNPC and Fuel Quality Concerns
This is not the first time NNPC has faced public scrutiny over fuel quality. In recent years, several Nigerians have complained about fuel adulteration and inconsistencies in fuel efficiency.
The company has consistently denied any wrongdoing, attributing issues to supply chain challenges and economic saboteurs.
In 2022, NNPC faced backlash over contaminated fuel that damaged several vehicles across Nigeria. The incident led to widespread public outcry and raised questions about the company’s quality control measures.
However, NNPC responded by compensating affected motorists and tightening its supply chain checks to prevent a recurrence.
Fuel Pricing and Economic Impact
The controversy comes at a time when Nigerians are grappling with high fuel prices, following the removal of fuel subsidies.
Recently, NNPC raised the price of petrol to N960 per litre in Lagos, sparking public outrage and debates about the rising cost of living.
Industry analysts believe that the economic hardship may be contributing to the perception that fuel is burning out faster than usual.
