The Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) has accused the Dangote Petroleum Refinery of engaging in practices that distort the local fuel market, alleging that its recent price cuts are designed to undercut competition rather than serve national interests.
In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Olufemi Adewole, DAPPMAN claimed the refinery deliberately reduces prices whenever other importers have cargoes at sea or in storage, a move that exposes marketers to significant financial losses.
The group argued that such actions weaken healthy competition in a sector still adjusting to the realities of deregulation.
DAPPMAN also alleged that Dangote sells fuel at lower prices to international buyers than to local marketers, describing the move as inconsistent with its public stance of prioritizing Nigerians.
“These pricing patterns place unnecessary pressure on domestic businesses already operating on thin margins,” Adewole stated.
On product quality, the association rejected suggestions that marketers deal in substandard fuel, stressing that all imports are subjected to tests in regulator-accredited laboratories under the supervision of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).
It further alleged that the refinery itself had sought waivers to distribute products with sulphur levels above approved standards, raising questions about its position on fuel quality.
While acknowledging the Dangote Refinery as a milestone project, DAPPMAN insisted that Nigeria’s energy security cannot rely solely on one facility.
“The refinery is a valuable contributor, but not a messiah,” the association said, warning that portraying Dangote as the dominant player risks discouraging investment and eroding confidence in the sector.
DAPPMAN urged for fair recognition of all players in the fuel supply chain, including marketers, depot operators, transporters, and regulators, whom it credited with sustaining fuel availability over the years despite numerous challenges.
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