Lagos, Nigeria — July 18, 2025
In a major development shaking Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the Dangote Refinery has uncovered a fuel diversion racket involving some of its trusted partners. As a direct consequence, the refinery has suspended its discount pricing scheme, citing abuse and loss of integrity in the supply chain.
According to an internal investigation launched by the refinery, certain distributors and partners were found to be diverting petroleum products — originally intended for local consumption under discounted rates — to unauthorized destinations, including illegal resale markets and foreign exports.
A spokesperson for the refinery confirmed the scandal earlier today, stating:
“We are deeply disappointed by the breach of trust by some of our distribution partners. This diversion undermines our commitment to making fuel affordable and available to Nigerians. We have no choice but to suspend the discount initiative pending a full audit.”
The discount scheme, introduced earlier this year, aimed to ease the fuel burden on Nigerians amidst rising global oil prices and naira depreciation. The decision to halt it has sparked concerns over potential increases in pump prices and fuel availability in coming weeks.
Industry experts warn this could intensify hardship for consumers, who are already grappling with high energy costs. However, the refinery insists the suspension is temporary and necessary to “protect the integrity of the system.”
The Dangote Group has vowed to take legal action against all culprits and strengthen monitoring systems to prevent future sabotage.
As investigations continue, stakeholders and government agencies have called for greater transparency and collaboration to ensure Nigeria’s largest private refinery fulfills its mission of stabilizing the nation’s fuel supply.
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