Tinubu Support Group Lauds Crude Oil Export Ban, Warns Against Sabotage

Abuja, Nigeria – The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) praised the federal government’s recent ban on the export of crude oil allocated to domestic refineries, describing it as a timely response to economic sabotage.

In a statement issued today, the group expressed outrage over the diversion of crude oil intended for local refineries into the international market.

According to the statement signed by TMSG Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, approximately 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil are designated for domestic refining under the Domestic Crude Oil Supply Obligation (DCSO), which is mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

President Bola Tinubu’s administration reinforced this policy in October 2024, requiring that allocated crude be supplied exclusively in Naira to boost domestic refining capacity and ensure an abundant local fuel supply.

TMSG expressed surprise at reports that large amounts of this designated crude are being illegally exported.

The group referred to this action as “economic sabotage,” and praised the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its prompt response in putting an end to the illegal activities.

“If local refineries do not have adequate crude supply,” the statement warned, “they will be forced to seek alternative sources, and marketers will inevitably resort to importing petroleum products.” This will hurt local fuel availability and prices.

While applauding the government’s action, TMSG urged officials to prioritise proactive measures for effective law enforcement and implementation of over-reactive sanctions against offending companies.

The group emphasised that domestic refineries must have unrestricted access to Nigerian crude by existing policies.

TMSG concluded its statement with a stern warning: “Any attempt to undermine President Bola Tinubu’s people-oriented policies will be resolutely resisted.”

The group’s strong stance highlights the political significance of the government’s efforts to strengthen domestic refining and improve fuel supply in Nigeria