Afenifere urges timely action: Hold President Tinubu to December deadline for Port Harcourt refinery

The pan-Yoruba social-political group, Afenifere, has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure the Port Harcourt Refinery begins operations in December, aligning with the Federal Government’s promise to kickstart local refinery production by the end of the year.

Recalling the government’s assurance, Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (oil), had inspected the rehabilitation progress at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) Limited plant, confidently stating that it would be operational before the close of the year.

Addressing the current economic landscape in the country, Afenifere, in a communique released after its caucus meeting in Akure, emphasized the importance of adhering to the proposed deadlines. The group asserted its belief that the activation of local refineries, including the Port Harcourt Refinery, could lead to a significant reduction in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.

The communique stated, “The meeting also took note of the assurances being given in regard to the commencement of production of petroleum products by some refineries in the country very soon. It then urged the government to ensure that the deadlines given are adhered to. For instance, the December deadline given for Port Harcourt Refinery to resume production should be met.”

Afenifere underscored the potential impact on the economy, stating that lowering the cost of petroleum products would contribute to alleviating the high prices of commodities and services across the nation. The call from Afenifere reflects a collective expectation for timely action and fulfillment of promises in the energy sector.