The House of Representatives has ordered a probe into the true state of the Port Harcourt refinery for which rehabilitation the Federal Government has approved the sum of $1.5billion.
Also, a comprehensive audit of all funds previously spent on the refinery and all other refineries across the country will be undertaken.
Thus, the lower legislative chamber has mandated its committee on Petroleum Resources Downstream to swing into action.
This decision follows a motion moved as a matter of public importance by Representative Onofiok Luke.
The lawmakers expressed worry that so much had been spent on maintaining and rehabilitating the refineries with very little result.
They also asked the Federal Government to grant licences and provide incentives for the construction of modular refineries.
The Federal Executive Council last week approved $1.5 billion for the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery which was billed to commence immediately.
The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, who made the announcement after the FEC meeting said the rehabilitation would be carried out in three phases to end in 44 months.
The announcement was met with criticisms. Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar described the proposal as a waste of resources, especially at a time the nation’s economy is in dire straits.
Atiku suggested the privatization of the refineries for more effective and efficient management.
Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi also said more information was needed to justify the rehabilitation.
