By Gabriel Ameh
A fresh debate has erupted over Nigeria’s fuel pricing following claims by activist lawyer Deji Adeyanju that the recent increase in pump price by the Dangote Refinery is unjustified.
Adeyanju alleged that the refinery raised fuel prices by over 100 per cent, attributing the development to tensions in the Gulf region linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.
He questioned the rationale behind tying domestic fuel prices to international geopolitical events, arguing that the refinery sources crude oil locally from Nigeria.
The activist further referenced the Federal Government’s approval allowing the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to supply crude oil to the refinery in naira, suggesting that exchange rate pressures should not significantly impact pricing under such an arrangement.
Adeyanju also contended that products currently being distributed were refined before the recent escalation of hostilities in the Gulf region, asking why Nigerians should bear additional costs for stock produced earlier.
He described the refinery’s market position as a “near-monopoly” and expressed concern that regulatory authorities may lack the will or capacity to intervene.
As of the time of filing this report, the Dangote Refinery has not publicly responded to these specific allegations.
The fuel price adjustment comes amid heightened sensitivity over energy costs, inflationary pressures, and cost-of-living concerns across Nigeria.
