Kachikwu incurs Reps’ wrath as refineries go comatose six months after they became operational

Ovie Okpare, Warri

The House Representatives on Monday said it would invite Minister of State for Petroleum, Dr. Ibe Kachikwu , to explain why the four refineries that were recently refurbished for operation are not currently producing six months after they became operational.

Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream ), Mr. Joseph Akinlaja, stated this on Monday when members of the committee visited Matrix Energy Limited tank farm in Warri , Delta State, as part of inquiries into high prices and influx of adulterated kerosene leading to explosions in the country.

Akinlaja, who said the House was deeply concerned about high cost of kerosene in the market as well as incessant explosion due to adulteration, said they were visiting major industry players in the country to ascertain how the situation could be resolved.

He said the situation where Nigeria almost relies on imported petroleum products despite only recently upgrading the four refineries in the country was a national embarrassment.

He urged Nigerians to join hands to ensure that things in the country start working for the general good of the people.

Punchng