Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba social-political group, has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure the Port Harcourt Refinery commences operations as promised in December. The Federal Government had assured Nigerians that the local refinery would start production by the end of the year, a commitment reiterated by Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (oil), during an inspection of the rehabilitation work at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) Limited plant.
Expressing concern about the current economic situation in the country, Afenifere issued a communique at the conclusion of its caucus meeting in Akure, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the government’s promise. The group believes that if the local refineries are operational, it will lead to a 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. This is with a view to bringing the cost of petroleum products down as high costs of these products are contributing to the soaring prices of commodities and services in the country.”
