Protesters Demand that Mele Kyari be Removed From Office for Failing to Restore Refineries and Storm the National Assembly Citing Suffering.

On Tuesday, a large group of protesters gathered in Abuja’s Three Arms Zone, advocating for comprehensive reforms in the oil sector. This demonstration, organized by the APC Solidarity and Development Forum and supported by various youth and civil society organizations, was a response to the rising fuel prices, ongoing fuel shortages, and the escalating economic difficulties faced by Nigerians. During the protest near the National Assembly Complex, leaders of the group, Kabir Matazu and Danielsi Momoh, articulated their concerns to the media, characterizing the current fuel crisis as indicative of deep-rooted systemic failures within the industry. In a letter directed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, they emphasized that despite numerous assurances from government officials, the issues of shortages and elevated prices remain unresolved, adversely affecting citizens and diminishing public confidence in the government's stewardship of oil resources. The protesters criticized the absence of functioning local refineries, despite a substantial $4 billion investment from the government, labeling this as a critical oversight and failure in management.

They argued that the government's lack of action not only undermines the administration's 'renewed hope' initiative but also highlights the urgent need for a leadership overhaul that prioritizes accountability. Moreover, they expressed concern over the lack of a definitive strategy to rejuvenate and operate local refineries. The issue of persistent corruption within the sector was also addressed, with demands for the National Assembly to enforce strict regulations to prevent the importation of substandard petroleum products that pose risks to public health and safety. The protesters called for the formation of an investigative committee to examine alleged misconduct, insisting that any implicated officials be prosecuted through anti-corruption agencies. They urged the National Assembly to take decisive action to reform the industry, ensuring its efficient operation and contribution to the nation’s economic well-being. The leaders of the protest articulated their demands as follows: "We seek a definitive plan for the revitalization and operationalization of our local refineries to achieve self-sufficiency in petroleum products and diminish our dependence on imports. "It is imperative that the National Assembly implements and enforces stringent regulations to prohibit the importation of substandard petroleum products, thereby safeguarding the health and safety of Nigerian citizens. "We call upon the President to appoint a competent individual with the necessary integrity and expertise to address the complexities of the oil sector and restore public trust. "We also advocate for the prompt formation of a committee tasked with investigating the current allegations of corruption and fraud within the oil sector." Moreover, we insist that those accountable be prosecuted and referred to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for legal action.