Dangote refinery, NNPCL in clash over alleged low-quality fuel
Officials from the Dangote Refinery have refuted claims that the controversial fuel allegedly purchased from a Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) filling station originated from their facility.
Speaking anonymously to Sunday PUNCH, the officials asserted that Nigerians have attested to the superior quality of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the Dangote Refinery, distinguishing it from fuel sourced elsewhere.
On Saturday, NNPCL dismissed allegations that it sold substandard petrol with a high burn rate. In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, the company responded to a viral video claiming its fuel depletes quickly in fuel tanks.
The controversy arose after a content creator shared a video comparing fuel purchased from an MRS Filling Station at Alapere, Lagos, at ₦925 per liter, with fuel from an NNPCL station at Ojodu Berger, priced at ₦945 per liter. According to him, he poured each into separate new generators, and the one using NNPCL fuel stopped after 17 minutes, while the generator powered by Dangote’s fuel ran for 33 minutes.
The video quickly gained traction, with many Nigerians sharing their experiences. However, NNPCL countered the claims, stating that the petrol sold at its Ojodu Berger outlet came from the Dangote Refinery.
“NNPC Ltd strongly refutes the false and misleading allegations in the viral video, which claims that our fuel does not last. This assertion is entirely unfounded and based on unverified, amateur research lacking credibility, accuracy, and professional oversight,” the statement read.
The company emphasized that its fuel is formulated for optimal efficiency, durability, and environmental sustainability. Additionally, it pointed out that a substantial portion of PMS sold at its Lagos stations is sourced from the Dangote Refinery.
“A significant percentage of the Premium Motor Spirit sold at NNPC retail stations in Lagos—where this deceptive video originated—comes from the Dangote Refinery, a key partner in supporting local production and energy security. Dangote Refinery adheres to strict industry standards, ensuring high-quality petroleum products for consumers,” the statement continued.
NNPCL further described the viral video as a “desperate attempt by economic saboteurs” to mislead the public and damage its reputation. It warned that it would take legal action against those spreading misinformation about its operations.
“We will not tolerate deliberate misinformation designed to undermine our operations and mislead Nigerians. Moving forward, NNPC Ltd will pursue legal action against individuals or groups who intentionally spread falsehoods about our brand and operations,” it stated.
The corporation urged Nigerians to disregard fabricated content and rely on verified sources for accurate information, reaffirming its commitment to fuel availability, affordability, and quality while adhering to global industry standards.
Meanwhile, sources from the Dangote Refinery expressed concerns over NNPCL’s attempt to involve their company in the controversy.
One official pointed out that not all NNPCL fuel originates from the Dangote Refinery, emphasizing that the corporation still operates its refineries and imports fuel from other countries.
“NNPCL is being clever by attributing the fuel to us while simultaneously giving ‘fake accolades.’ Our PMS has been recognized for its superior burn rate for months, so why subtly drag Dangote into this issue?” the official questioned.
Another source suggested that NNPCL might be attempting to entangle Dangote Refinery in an unnecessary dispute.
“NNPCL may be trying to create a controversy, but it’s unnecessary. They have been importing fuel—have they denied that? They also operate their refineries. We do not sell substandard fuel, and Nigerians know this,” the source stated.
“We won’t respond to such statements. When a product is good, it speaks for itself. The quality of our fuel is undeniable, and Nigerians can confirm that,” the official concluded.
