The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Managing Directors and top officials of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries over the alleged misappropriation of nearly $3 billion earmarked for the facilities’ rehabilitation.
Breakdown of funds under investigation- Port Harcourt Refinery: $1.56 billion, Kaduna Refinery: $740.7 million, Warri Refinery: $657 million.
Among those detained are Ibrahim Onoja, ex-MD of Port Harcourt Refining Company, and Efifia Chu, former MD of Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company. An EFCC source revealed that N80 billion was discovered across multiple accounts linked to one of the arrested MDs.
Expanding Probe and High-Profile Figures
The investigation also targets former NNPCL Group CEO Mele Kyari and 13 other senior executives, as indicated in an April 28, 2025 EFCC document titled “Investigation Activities: Request for Information.” Allegations include abuse of office and large-scale financial mismanagement.
Refineries’ Operational Failures
Despite official claims of resumed operations in late 2024, both Warri and Port Harcourt refineries have underperformed. Warri shut down within a month due to safety concerns, while Port Harcourt operates below 40% capacity.
A Saturday PUNCH visit in April 2025 found the Warri refinery dormant, with no fuel lifting and staff declining comment. Marketers reported being unable to obtain products since the relaunch.
Industry Backlash and Expert Critique
Energy analyst Kelvin Emmanuel criticized the NNPCL’s handling of the projects, calling the recommissionings a “charade” and arguing that the $2.96 billion spent could have built a new refinery. Expert Dan Kunle noted the government bypassed the refineries’ original Japanese constructors due to security concerns and awarded costly, ineffective contracts. He highlighted the Kaduna refinery’s lack of a crude supply pipeline as a major flaw.
Impending Staff Strike
Support staff at the Warri refinery plan to begin an indefinite strike on May 5 over unpaid benefits and broken wage promises dating back to 2015. Their representative, Dafe Ighomitedo, cited the failure to honor commitments made ahead of the refinery’s restart.
Calls for Reform and Transparency
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) are demanding a full audit of the refinery projects. PETROAN acknowledged limited operations during site visits but stressed the need for a comprehensive review.
As pressure mounts, stakeholders urge the government to ensure accountability and rethink Nigeria’s refining strategy.