The Traffic

"Lawmaker Alleges Corruption and Threats in House of Representatives Committee Probe

A controversy is brewing in the House of Representatives over the investigation into the feud between Dangote Refinery, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). Hon. Ugochinyere Ikenga, Chairman of the Downstream Committee, has been accused of hijacking the probe and taking sides with Dangote Refinery.

According to sources, Ikenga allegedly received $1.7 million to secure his position as Chairman and has threatened to "set the nation on fire" with information he claims to have if removed. He has also been accused of intimidating NNPCL management into allocating petroleum products and contracts to him.

The joint committee's investigation has been marred by controversy, with Ikenga's co-chair, Hon. Prince Okogie, and other members distancing themselves from his actions. The Speaker has reportedly dissolved the joint committee, but this has not been made public.

NNPCL staff have come forward, alleging harassment and intimidation by Ikenga, and are willing to testify under oath before a neutral committee. The situation remains volatile, with allegations of corruption and threats hanging over the investigation."