Dangote refutes claims of substandard products at refinery following reps visit

He made this denial during the House of Representatives’ visit to the refinery located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone.

The delegation was led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, accompanied by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere.

To substantiate his claims, Dangote showcased tests conducted on diesel purchased from two filling stations, as well as that from his refinery, using the facility’s laboratories.

The lawmakers were present while the diesel samples from the other stations were collected, as was the sample taken from the Dangote Refinery during production.

The testing process included checking the sulphur levels and conducting a flash point test.

While all crude-based products contain some sulphur, excessive levels can be harmful to engines and vehicle parts.

The flash point refers to the lowest temperature at which the application of the ignition source causes the vapours above the liquid to ignite with the minimum expected flash point at 66.

The results showed that the sulphur content in the diesel from other stations was above 2,631 and 1,829; much higher than the recommended level while the tests for the flash point showed results of 26 and 63 respectively for the diesel from other stations. Both results fell short of the recommended minimum of 66.

The results for the diesel from Dangote turned out to be 87.6 ppm for sulphur and 96 flashpoints.

According to Dangote, these results not only affirm the quality of his refinery’s products but also highlight the issue of substandard petroleum products being imported and sold to unsuspecting Nigerians.

He addressed the Speaker by stating, “The most important thing, your excellency, is to note that the imported products they are promoting meet specifications in tests, but independent checks often yield different results.”

Dangote continued, emphasizing that individuals who have access to laboratories may be influenced to report falsely.

He recommended the best way to ascertain the quality of imported products is to purchase and test them directly from filling stations.

In response, Speaker Abbas expressed concern over the conflicting claims and called for an investigation. “I am puzzled by this contradiction involving two players from the public and private sectors,” he remarked. “This warrants further investigation to uncover any ulterior motives.”