Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) for its recent public invitation, labeling it as disrespectful and poorly handled.
The invitation, which was extended through a press statement rather than a formal letter, asked Obasanjo to tour the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries following his remarks about Nigeria’s struggling refinery operations. 
Obasanjo, speaking through his media aide Kehinde Akinyemi, expressed disappointment over the approach, stating,
“Is that the right way to invite a former president? It is a total disrespect for the office.”
The former president had earlier questioned the competence of the NNPCL to manage the refineries, citing past failures and wasted funds exceeding $2 billion since 2007.
He also recalled rejecting an offer of $750 million from Aliko Dangote to operate the refineries, a decision reversed by his successor, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
The NNPCL, however, defended its efforts, claiming the refineries had undergone significant rehabilitation and inviting Obasanjo to witness the progress firsthand.
The company’s spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, assured Nigerians that the facilities were operational, but skepticism persists.
Reports indicate that activity at the Port Harcourt refinery remains inconsistent, with ongoing calibration and limited truck loading operations.
Critics, including Afenifere and the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), have sided with Obasanjo, calling the NNPCL’s actions politically motivated and dismissive of public accountability.
Afenifere Secretary-General Chief Sola Ebiseni emphasized that “Obasanjo’s critique reflects the frustrations of Nigerians over mismanaged resources and unfulfilled promises.”
Meanwhile, CUPP’s Chief Peter Ameh urged the government to prioritize private-sector involvement for efficiency.
With public trust waning, the debate underscores the need for transparency and accountability in managing Nigeria’s oil refineries.
Despite claims from NNPCL Group CEO Mele Kyari that the Warri Refinery has resumed operations, Nigerians remain wary, demanding results that justify the billions spent on rehabilitation.
