The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has raised the alarm over the circulation of false information claiming that it is selling refinery scrap materials, equipment, and components to individuals and private firms.

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, the company firmly denied authorising any such sales, describing the claims as misleading and fraudulent, according to The Business Bureau.

The statement, signed by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Andy Odeh, clarified that NNPC has not issued any request for bids, tenders, or expressions of interest regarding the disposal of refinery assets.

“NNPC Limited wishes to alert the public to the circulation of misleading and false information suggesting that the company is selling scrap materials, equipment, or components from its refineries,” the statement read.

NNPC Denies Any Scrap Sale Activity

The company categorically stated that it has not approved the sale of any items from the warehouses or inventories of its refineries, including facilities located in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna.

“NNPC Limited has not issued any request for bids, tenders, expressions of interest, or approvals for the sale of scrap materials or refinery components,” the company said.

NNPC emphasised that any legitimate disposal of assets would only be conducted through transparent and officially communicated processes in line with regulatory requirements.

Fraudsters Impersonating NNPC Officials

The oil company disclosed that it has received reports of individuals falsely presenting themselves as NNPC representatives or agents, claiming to facilitate the sale of refinery scrap materials.

It warned that such individuals are unauthorised and are attempting to defraud unsuspecting members of the public and corporate organisations.

The Business Bureau gathered that the company has urged stakeholders to remain vigilant and avoid engaging with anyone making such claims.

Public Advised to Exercise Caution

NNPC advised the public to disregard all solicitations related to the alleged sale of refinery equipment and to verify information only through its official communication channels.

“For the avoidance of doubt, NNPC Limited is not conducting, nor has it authorised, any sale of scrap metals, equipment, or refinery components from any of its facilities,” the statement added.

The company also encouraged anyone who encounters such fraudulent activities to report them to relevant law enforcement authorities.

Refinery Status and Ongoing Concerns

Despite repeated assurances, Nigeria’s state-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna have remained largely inactive over the years, raising concerns among stakeholders about their long-term viability.

However, NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, has maintained that efforts to revive the refineries are ongoing.

The Business Bureau analysis indicates that misinformation surrounding refinery operations often thrives amid uncertainty in the sector, underscoring the need for clear and consistent communication from industry stakeholders.