By Karen James
Amid fresh agitation for the sale of the Port Harcourt Refinery, a coalition of patriotic citizens and stakeholders has sounded the alarm, warning the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to resist another round of privatization that could rob the nation of its future.
Leading the charge is Prophet Dr. David Kingleo Elijah, who described the renewed push to sell the strategic refinery as “a dangerous replay of history,” urging Nigerians to reject what he called “economic deception masked as reform.”
According to the group, Nigeria’s past experiences with the privatization of public assets such as the Eleme Petrochemicals Company and segments of the defunct NEPA have yielded more losses than gains. Despite billions in divestment revenue, Nigeria’s infrastructure remains in disrepair, unemployment persists, and the debt profile has worsened.
“We must learn from our past mistakes. These assets belong to all Nigerians, not a privileged few. Selling the refinery will not solve our economic problems. It will only enrich a small circle while deepening public frustration,” the statement reads.
The concerned citizens argue that calls for privatization are often framed as necessary economic reforms but, in reality, serve as conduits for the transfer of national wealth to elite interests. This, they say, has consistently undermined public trust and worsened the socio-economic divide.
They warned that selling the Port Harcourt refinery could lead to a monopolized oil sector, rising fuel costs, job losses, and reduced public accountability. Instead, they called on the government to complete the refinery’s rehabilitation, enforce transparency in operations, and encourage partnerships that maintain public ownership while attracting technical expertise.
Prophet Dr. Elijah also emphasized the spiritual and symbolic importance of protecting national assets.
“This refinery is more than steel and oil—it is a symbol of national pride and potential. We must defend it for our children and generations yet unborn.”
The statement urged the NNPCL to remain resolute and not be swayed by those who see the nation’s economic infrastructure as a bargaining chip for personal gain.
As Nigerians grapple with economic uncertainty and a growing cost of living crisis, the call to protect the Port Harcourt refinery resonates deeply across communities who see the asset not just as a plant, but as a promise yet to be fulfilled.
