Home Blog Page 75

Legal icon Epiphany Azinge emerges 14th Asagba of Asaba designate

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Obi(Prof.)Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON)

On Sunday, the Asaba traditional council, the Asagba-in-Council, announced the emergence of a foremost legal luminary the former Director General of the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, a Professor of law, holds the traditional chieftaincy title of the Okilolo of Asaba ,(Obi)Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN,as the 14th Asagba (King) of Asaba designate.

The Asagba-in-Council announced his selection as the most qualified among the 10 contenders in the race, who hail from Ugbomanta quarters and is to produce the next Asagba after Prof. Chike Edozien, who had since joined his ancestors.

The Ochendo of Asaba, Anthony Edozien, made the announcement on behalf of the Council and said the selection process was in accordance with the Traditional Rulers and Chiefs Edict of 1979, which applies to Delta State.

Mr Azinge, a former director general of the Nigeria Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, was selected from a poll of 10 contenders to the royal stool. Among the contenders were Tony Ogugia Konwea, Emmanuel Onwuka, a professor, and Chinedu Esealuka.

A cross section of Asaba indigenes both at home and in diaspora were united in their clamour that the next Asagba of Asaba should be accessible, accommodating, cosmopolitan and exude uncommon affection for the people. He must evince the statesman like virtues of wisdom and temperance. And more importantly, the process of selecting the (Obi)Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN,as the 14th Asagba (King) of Asaba designate was fair, transparent and equitable.

Pastor Idowu Okeze: Touching lives in a unique way

By: Ike Philip  Abiagom

Pastor  Chukwudi Idowu Okeze

Pastor Idowu Okeze knows that when Ibusa Community honestly ask themselves which persons in their lives means the most to them, they often find that it is those who, instead of giving advice, solutions, or cures, have rather chosen to share people’s pain and touch their wounds with a warm and tender hand. let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be gotten, but they need hearts to love them”. So, spread your love everywhere you go.

Generosity is giving more than you can. You can give without loving, but you can never love without giving. Pastor Idowu Okeze is not an ethnic bigot; he loves and cares for all. His testament as light of God is every day an inch to better a life or more.

You cannot meet Pastor Idowu Okeze with sorrow and return in the same mood, his smiles welcomes you, his pockets sustain audience and send you home. Many times, the ever ready-help giver leader of the igbuzo has halted his entourage on the road to give help to the people.

Philanthropist abound all over the world. Sometimes, persons blessed by almighty God will decide to touch the lives of the less privileged in order to give back to the society that made them what they are and whom they are.

For much of human history, the idea of ownership and property was non-existent. Most resources were shared in the community. Philanthropy arose with the advent of capitalism. Humans struggled for wealth. Some succeeded. Some failed. The world became divided between the haves and the have not. Those who have more than enough sometimes try to share their excess with those who do not have enough.

Pastor Idowu Okeze, is a Nigerian passionate about impacting the society though acts of immense humanity. He is an example of the ‘Haves’ of the society, those who not just that they have more than enough but they are passionate about sharing their wealth with others, those imbued with a burning desire to touch the poor and less privileged. He is a Pastor who has over the years invested so much in human capital development and philanthropy, through which he has impacted several lives and communities.

The man popularly called Idowu Okeze has over the years pursued a lot of philanthropist endeavours, targeted at lifting the less privileged out of poverty and making the world a better place for all. He has committed substantial funds to various humanitarian causes and charitable organizations. His considerable investment in human capital has led to the mentoring and grooming of hundreds of youths to be self-sufficient and the creation of opportunities to those in need of a viable platform to thrive in life through different empowerments.

Sometime last year,residents of Ezenei area of Asaba in Delta State,had a life transforming experience as a result of the provision of electricity to them, many did not believe this. For one year,the communities that made up the area had lived without electricity and this contributed in no small measure in hampering growth in such places,they cried to him and behold Pastor Idown Okeze came along with his heart of gold and sense of magnanimity,the fortunes of the people grew.Pastor Okeze gave a huge amount of money to help restore electricity there (Ezenei Avenue-Asaba).

Through a charity organisation, Obi Okeze Foundation, which he wholly finances, the Ibusa-born Philanthropist has sponsored a private execution of community projects, offered free scholarships to many indigent persons from primary to tertiary level education, provided shelter for many homeless families and sponsored free health care projects. The foundation strives to promote love, save lives, improve global health, groom and mentor youths, and collaborate with other civil society and human rights organizations to alleviate poverty, health challenges, support education, improve living conditions of individuals and promote community development. The foundation with some partners has pledged to embrace and enhance humanity in diverse ways by consistent donations to philanthropy.

Pastor Idowu Okeze is a great pillar to the youths in Ibusa Community,He is a notable philanthropist whose humanitarian acts and deeds have brought considerable succour to many. He has also won many awards and honours.

Pastor Idowu Okeze is a blessing to this generation, his passion for human capital development is unparalleled.

Idowu Okeze: When Philanthropy Becomes a Way of Life … Builds Roads, Hospital, block of Classrooms, Other Facilities For his Community

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

SUCCOUR came the way of the people of Ibusa in Oshimili North Local Government Council of Delta State as one of their sons,Pastor Idowu Okeze, put smiles on their faces yesterday. His Royal Majesty,Obi Prof. Louis Nwoboshi,the Obuzor of Ibusa, yesterday commissioned state-of-the-art hospital with cutting-edge technology,CIDO Asthma Foundation(Asthmatic patients Hospital), 2.5 kilometer-long roads(Uzo Ugbo Umueze and Uzo Mmili Roads in Umueze-Ibusa.

Pastor Okeze, renowned for his philanthropy also built two other Community-Commissioned projects of the day include the recently constructed fence of St. Thomas College, Ibusa, which he funded, the renovated Principal’s Office with equipment as well, and a block of classrooms in the school that have newly disclosed furniture. Utilizing the occasion, the Idowu Okeze team also inaugurated the recently constructed State of the Art Civic Centre Obi Nwaokocha J.Okeze Event Center, which is outfitted with cutting-edge amenities.

Speaking while commissioning the Projects, HRM Obi Prof Louis Nwaoboshi,the Obuzor of Ibusa praised Pastor Okeze for his unwavering commitment to the development of Ibusa and Delta State at large. He highlighted the philanthropist, while also commending his efforts in transforming the community through various infrastructural projects, describing him as a beacon of hope and inspiration for others.

The Obuzor of Ibusa, while noting that government alone cannot develop everywhere at the same time, urged other well-meaning individuals to emulate the Okeze’s philanthropic spirit and contribute to the growth and progress of their communities. He appealed to other affluent citizens in the community to seek out other areas to assist in the development of Ibusa.

Earlier in his remarks, Pastor Okeze explained that his motivation to embark on these projects stemmed from his desire to give back to his community and improve the quality of life for its residents. He further expressed his gratitude to the HRM Obi Prof Louis Nwaoboshi, the Obuzor of Ibusa-led administration in Ibusa for her visible impacts and efforts in propelling the developmental wheel of the town, while also assuring of continued efforts and support to help move the town forward.

In addition to his infrastructural projects, Pastor Okeze has made significant strides in the area of empowerment, as he recently gave out 50 tricycles and an additional financial empowerment for 510 person with (one hundred thousand naira )₦100,000 each as cash empowerment in Ibusa community.

In their separate interviews with this Newsbreeze reporter, some of the community members lauded Pastor Okeze’s philanthropic endeavours, noting that his contributions and those of his wife have brought about significant positive changes in Igbuzo, hailing him for being a true son of the soil.

Aside the community members, the event was also witnessed by many dignitaries who joined voice to cheer up benefactors, Okeze and his wife for yet another batch of philanthropic gestures and selfless services to humanity.

 

Prof. Azinge’s Customary Voyage into the Aristocratic Obi Titlle

By: Ike Philip Abiagom
The ancient Asaba Community now the state capital of the oil rich Delta state welcomed the indefatigable legal scholar, Obi(Prof.) Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON) into the highly revered and aristocratic Obi title class.
This voyage into the Obiship title by Prof Azinge is a watershed event.
He joins other renowned Professors before him who has taken this most coveted title: The late Obi Prof Chike Edozien, a world class medical scholar and late Asagba of Asaba; the late Obi Prof Chike Onwuachi from the neighbouring Igbuzo community and former Director General of the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs; The present Obuzor of Igbuzo, Obi Prof Louis Chelunor Nwaoboshi, a scientists scientist, and FAO scholar, now on the throne of his ancestors, etc.
Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge marked the culmination of Ahaba Eze Title which commenced on the 5th of August, 2024 by paying homage to the gods of Ugbomanta – Ihu-ani for traditional rites performed by the Diokpa of Ugbomanta Quarters and other traditional Chiefs.
Thousands of people thronged the streets with many dignitaries and well-wishers who flew into Asaba from around the world to witness this ceremony.
It was a beautiful sight to behold as the Ugbomanta people of Asaba in Delta state performed the traditional rites of Iwucha na nsu of a new Eze, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge.
Obi Azinge who had already completed the traditional rites of Iwucha na nsu, proceeded into the itchi rites of seven (7) days (isolation) customary holiday time during which he will have a close relationship with his chi (gods), which is a mandatory ritualistic performances of the Ichi Eze rites of Ahaba tradition and customs.
Thereafter as part of the colourful rituals of Ichi Eze, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge will embark on the spiritual journey, Ije-Udo sacred ground where he will return with the elili ukwu anglet tied to his ankles.
Thereafter, he will be unveiled to the world as the newest Obi Agbogidi of Ahaba, wearing the prestigious red cap for the first time as required of a bonafide Obi Asaba.
Subsequently he will be wearing the red cap as required by his people’s customary rules and may seldom be seen without it at public events.
As the highest traditional social rank amongst the Ahaba people, Obiship institution is a prestigious traditional institution.
Due to their noble status and uncommon pedigree the late very influencial Catholic Bishop of Colonial Nigeria, in the then Eastern Region – the historic figure, Bishop Shannanan referred to Obiship titled holders as the traditional Bishops and noble men, of class, panache and stately stature of their respective communities.
Prof. Azinge, the newest Eze Ahaba, is presently in the procedural seven days Itchi rites seclusion period, part of a big cultural observance required.
After this process is concluded Prof Azinge will proceed to the Udo sacred ekpele site secluded traditional ground, where he will ultimately don the indigenous anklet known as “eli li ukwu.”
As required by custom, his spouse, Dr. Valerie Azinge (SAN), would also benefit from the Obiship position as Okpoho Eze.
The Iroko of a personality Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON) is now on customary voyage to Ahaba Obiship/Ezeship rites and the entire Ahaba people, enthusiastic about their forefathers’ tradition, will be very happy to welcome Obi(Prof.)Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON)for completing all the rites and ceremonies of Asaba culture.
+10
All reactions:

Stephen Oburotha, Olimmah Vin Shuntee and 2 others

Prof. Azinge’s Customary Voyage to Obi Title

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Obi(Prof.)Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON)

The Asagbaship throne of a dashing monarch in the oil-rich state capital but impoverished Delta region has sparked a resurgence in royalty, tradition and ancestry among some Nigerians.

Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge marked the culmination of Ahaba Eze Title which commenced on the 5th of August,2024 by paying homage to the gods of Ugbomanta – Ihu-ani for traditional rites performed by the Diokpa of Ugbomanta Quarters and other traditional Chiefs.

Obi(Dr.) Valerie Azinge (SAN)

Thousands of people thronged the streets and dignitaries and well-wishers flew in from around the world as the Ugbomanta people of Asaba in Delta state performed the traditional rites of Iwucha na nsu of a new Eze, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge.

Obi Azinge who had already completed the traditional rites of Iwucha na nsu, had proceeded  with itchi rites of seven(7)days (isolation)customary holiday time during which he will have a close relationship with his chi(gods),which is a mandatory ritualistic performances of the Ichi Eze rites of Ahaba tradition and customs.

Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge will embark on the spiritual journey to Ije-Udo sacred ground where he will return with the elili ukwu tied to his ankles. Thereafter, he will be unveiled to the world as the newest Obi Agbogidi of Ahaba. Obi Azinge, who is wearing the red cap for the first time, will receive it after the ceremonies of Obiship are completed. He will then be able to wear the red cap as required by his people’s customary rules and may seldom be seen without it at public events.

As the highest traditional social rank among the Ahaba people, Obiship is typical of the group with high-class, it has a conventional nobleman as the bearer. The Azinge family is never new to living the life of their people’s cultural life but the family, driven by the popular choice in their dynastic, Obi Prof. Epiphany Azinge, is already making headlines as the people of Asaba finds another rare avenue to reawaken, preserve and promote one of its cherished cultures to the world in the 21st century.

He promised to promote the culture of the people; and take active steps to build a lasting legacy based on the promotion of our rich and unique culture. As Obi Azinge’s Itchi rites of Obiship continues in his Ahaba hometown, the cultural participant has sent his salutations to the entire Asaba people.

Prof. Azinge, the newest Eze Ahaba, is presently in seven days Itchi rites as part of a big cultural observances and once the traditional process that would reveal him to the community as Obi is concluded, he will be brought to the UDO ground, where he will ultimately don the indigenous anklet known as “eli li ukwu.” As required by custom, his spouse, Dr. Valerie Azinge (SAN), would also benefit from the Obiship position.
The Iroko of a personality Prof. Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON) is now on customary voyage to Ahaba Obiship/Ezeship rites and the entire Ahaba people, who are enthusiasts of their forefathers’ tradition, will be very happy to welcome Obi(Prof.)Epiphany Azinge (SAN,OON)for completing all the rites and ceremonies of Asaba culture.

Jubilation in Ibusa as Obi Ajudua completes traditional rites of Obi title

By: Ike Philip Abiagom

Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua-1 has toed the line of his ancestors -Ajudua family of Umuodafe in Igbuzo, by taking the Eze title. Indeed, the Igbuzo Kingdom, nestled in the heart of Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, is celebrating a significant milestone for Dr Henry Ajudua,the CEO and founder of the charitable medical company Vebron Carre, United States for accepting the Ibusa’s Highest Status in Name and Cultural Essence as the newest Eze in Igbuzo.

In Ibusa,the Obiship is the highest title of the land,also known as the Ezeship with interchangeability, is a strong institution whose holders could also have an impact on spiritual and social issues of the land.

The people of Igbuzo Kingdom have lauded the proactive leadership and commitment demonstrated by Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua,the CEO and founder of the charitable medical company Vebron Carre, United States, for showcasing the Igbuzor culture to the world and it will open doors to cultural presumptions about people’s titles. Ibusa people fervently urge the new Obi to continue fostering harmony and collaboration among his people for the holistic advancement of the town and Enuani in general.

Most Senior Diopka of Igbuzo, His Royal Highness, Onowu Joseph Ijeh

As we mark the culmination of Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua’s ritualistic performances of the Ichi Eze rites,Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua of Ibusa, has completed the itchi rites, releasing him from the 21-day customary indoors during which it is assumed he shared a close relationship with the gods. It should not be forgotten that ‘ahuhu,’ a customary sign of his itchi performance, had made two appearances.

Obi Dr Henry Ajudua-1 with his brother ISU Khalifa , Chief Fred Chijindu Ajudua

Obi Ajudua just return from the spiritual journey of UDO sacred ground yesterday 11th August 2024,where he returned with the elili ukwu tied to his ankles as Igbuzor customs demands and he was unveiled to the world as the newest Obi Igbuzo.

After his return from Udo, the stage was cleared for the noble dance, which featured him, his lovely wife Dr. Vivian Ajudua, and the other members of the family sharing the dance floor including the ISU Khalifa who stood by his elder brother throughtout this significant journey. Dressed in Akwa-Ocha Mbulukwu (traditional skirt), he exhibited a noble dance, the type, the Ibusa people will normally regard as “royalty dance.” His wife who was also dressed in Akwa-Ocha demonstrated herself to be a traditional dance champion and Obi Ajudua and his beloved wife danced round the whole town of Igbuzor to mark the end of the obiship and also visited the Most Senior Diopka of Igbuzor, His Royal Highness, Onowu Joseph Ijeh, Obuzor of Igbuzo,His Royal Majesty, Obi Professor Louis Nwoboshi, Ikwele of Igbuzo, His Eminence, High Chief Celestine Okafor, Igbuzo,  Chiefs and other personalities.

His Royal Majesty, Obi Professor Louis Nwoboshi,Obuzor of Igbuzo, with Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua and his wife Obi Dr. Vivian Ajudua

The planned celebration serves as a testament to the unity and cultural vibrancy of the Igbuzor Kingdom, emphasizing the pivotal role of peace and cooperation in propelling development and progress within the community.

As Igbuzo Kingdom embarks on its journey towards a brighter future, collective efforts from all stakeholders are essential in fostering a sustainable and thriving environment for its inhabitants. Through collaborative initiatives and developmental endeavors, Igbuzor Kingdom remains steadfast in its pursuit of becoming a beacon of progress and prosperity in the country.

Under the enlightened leadership of the swagalicious Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua of Ibusa, the Igbuzor Kingdom will witnessed a remarkable development strides, both from governmental bodies and private individuals. Obi Dr. Henry Ajudua has confided to Newsbreeze crew that his interest lies in drawing greater interest in the cultural and traditional believe of the Ibusa people in which the people will become fascinated to love their culture.

The Igbuzor people, who are enthusiasts of their forefathers’ tradition, will be happy to welcome Chief Dr. Henry Ajudua of the Ajudua Ibusa lineage for completing all the rites and ceremonies of Igbuzor culture and his reign will be filled with blessings and progress of our beloved kingdom.
Obi Igwe ooo. Obi Igwe ooo.. Obi Igwe ooo…

Nwaoboshi a man with robust Political experience and wide range of Political influence

Most Distinguished Senator Peter Onyelukachukwu Nwaoboshi (SPON)

Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi (SPON)will always stand out in Anioma Nation,“Nwaoboshi will always remain relevant in Delta North politics. He is already a household name and a champion of the Anioma nation. His contribution to the development of the nation cannot be washed away by a non-starter. Today, in Delta politics, Nwaoboshi remains the third tripod known to contemporary Delta politics.” and not a social media senator.
The Ibusa born political tactician brought to the fore glamour and extraordinary representation in less than one year in office after beginning his improbable quest as a first timer within the minority party, he became Chairman Senate Committee on Niger – Delta Affairs, Including The NDDC, the first minority barrier breaking achievement believed to be impossible by generation of minorities in Nigeria.

There is no doubt whatsoever that in the last seven years of his active representation as a senator of Federal Republic of Nigeria before he was incarcerated, Anioma Nation have come to embrace and admire Senator Nwaoboshi’s tactical audacity, strategic acumen and the sure-footed administrative astuteness which sets him apart as a visionary leader, Senator Nwaoboshi can never be compared to the present senator or the past senators in all ramifications if not for his incarceration which gave his opponent a free running day in the last open election.

it’s also on record that no Anioma Senator has ever broken the record of chairing any juicy Senate Committee as a first timer, it is only the Most Distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi a man with robust political experience and wide range of political influence. A man who spread dividends of democracy to the nook and crannies of Delta North within one year in office, Anioma Nation never knew that a serving senator can attract over 140 roads network across Delta North, distribution of 100 Transformers, installation of thousands of solar street lights, supply of over 100,000 chairs and tables to primary and Secondary schools in Delta North, renovation of schools, building of skills acquisition centers, empowerment of women and youths, training of Anioma Youth through NDDC, employment of youths into various Government parastatals etc.

In the 9th senate, Senator Nwaoboshi proposed bill for the creation of Anioma State when he was representing Delta North,it passed through the first and second reading and was referred to the committee on State creation. Eminent Anioma leaders were carried along and they appeared before the committee and defended the request, and it was one of the states shortlisted, the records are there for check. Senator Nwaoboshi is not a social media representative and does not make unnecessary noise.

Its on record that Senator Peter Nwaoboshi had alot of evidence of completed projects in every ward in Anioma Nation within one year in office. Who can beat the reach of this Anioma iconic senator and the biggest employer of labour in Anioma nation(Industrialist).

 

Corruption At Ports: Group Writes To Presidency

National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA),  Lucky Amiwero, has charged the Federal Government to implement the Single Window Environment (SWE) to curb corruption-related problems at the nation’s seaports.
In a letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Amiwero noted that apart from curbing corruption-related problems at the seaports, implementation of the SWE has many other benefits.
The Council listed some of the benefits to include provision of standardised information, single entry point, and reduced malpractice associated with import-export and transit-related regulatory requirements.

NCMDLCA also added that “the SWE will help facilitate the accelerated flow of service in Customs release and Cargo clearance, enhance the availability and handling of information, and harmonise better sharing of relevant data across Government system.
“It will reduce malpractice associated with Import- Export and Transit regulated requirements, provide trade related government information and receive payment of duties and other charges”.

The Council added that the provision of Section (1a) of the Customs Act provide for lead agency and one stop-shop process under the control of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
The implementation of SWE is expected to simplify the administrative process, reduce costs, and enhance the availability and handling of information, making trading easier for both government and private sector stakeholders.

NDDC holds 2024 moot court competition for 13 N/delta universities in Port-Harcourt

Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)  is determined to change the narratives and empower the Youths through a deliberate educational policies ,the NDDC has held a moot and trial Court competition for selected 13 universities across the Niger Delta region.

The competition which is an annual event attracted key players in the legal profession including those in the private and education sectors.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the event held at the Dr Nabo Graham Douglas port harcourt campus of the Nigerian law School, tuesday, the managing Director/chief executive officer , NDDC , Chief Samuel Ogbuku,ph,D said the essence of the program was to promote and strengthened the legal education in the region in other to advance the course of development in the region.

Ogbuku averred that the commission will continue to give the youths in the region the sense of belonging in the country, especially those in the legal pursuit the opportunity to be exposed to better knowledge so that they can represent the region better in future , adding that the commission have resolved to sponsor the best participating university at the end of the three days event to a one month funded internship program at O,C,J Okocha’s chamber in port harcourt.

“It is our belief in the NDDC that legal advocacy can play a significant role to addressing the challenges that bedeviled the Niger Delta region and proffer solutions to those challenges”

The Nddc managing director used the opportunity to call for partnership between the commission and the council for legal education and the State NBA so that they can own up the program and ensure its sustenance and assured that the Commission will continue to sponsor it.

He charged the students to engage in intellectual stimulating arguments that highlight the peculiarities of the region and canvas solutions that Will guide and shape future law making thereby facilitating the even rapid and sustainable development of our beloved region.

Also speaking , the Director, legal services/Board secretary ,NDDC, Stephen Onome Ighomuaye opined that moot court system is a key vehicle for developing the spirit of teamwork , adding that it also comes with benefits of networking .

“This is very important for deepening both intellectual and regional integration for us in the Niger Delta”

“Through the moot Court competition ,we bring together law students (future lawyers) from universities across the region in a healthy contest, frame facts from legal issues peculiar to the socio_political environment of the region” he stated

In his speech, the special guest of honor, Chief OCJ Okocha commended NDDC for the program , stressing that it will lay a strong foundation and have impactful effects to the development of the upcoming lawyers and drive the desired developments of the region.

Climax of the event was presentation of Educational support materials and weekly law report books to the participating universities by chairman of the Governing board of CV NDDC, mr Chiedu Ebie Esq. as well as good will messages from NBA Port Harcourt branch and other invited guests .

 

We never accused NNPC of not supplying us crude oil – Dangote Refinery

Dangote Industries Limited, DIL, has said it has never accused the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) of not supplying crude to its refinery in Lagos.

Dangote said this in a statement on Thursday while reacting to claims that it has backtracked from its earlier claim that the NNPCL was not supplying crude for the operation of its refinery.

The claim was based on the appearance of an official of the company before the Senate on Wednesday.

However, Dangote Industries Limited, in the statement it issued on Thursday said its complaint was concern has always been NUPRC’s reluctance to enforce the domestic crude supply obligation” to it, rather than failure of the NNPCL to supply crude for the operation of its refinery.

The company said, “Our attention has been drawn to media reports alleging that the Dangote Refinery has backtracked by acknowledging that NNPC supplied about 60% of the 50 million barrels we lifted.

“To clarify, we have never accused NNPC of not supplying us with crude. Our concern has always been NUPRC’s reluctance to enforce the domestic crude supply obligation, and ensuring that we receive our full crude requirement from NNPC and the IOCs.”

The company noted that while the September requirement for the refinery is 15 cargoes, six were allocated to the NNPCL.

“For September, our requirement is 15 cargoes, of which NNPC allocated six. Despite appealing to NUPRC, we’ve been unable to secure the remaining cargoes. When we approached IOCs producing in Nigeria, they redirected us to their international trading arms or responded that their cargoes were committed,” it said.

“Consequently, we often purchase the same Nigerian crude from international traders at an additional $3-$4 premium per barrel which translates to $3-$4 million per cargo. We therefore still insist that we are unable to secure our full crude requirement from domestic production and urge NUPRC to fully enforce the domestic crude supply obligation as mandated by the PIA,” the statement signed by the Group Chief Branding & Communications Officer Anthony Chiejina read.