Edo State Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Amb. Enaholo Ojiefoh has called on illegal refinery operators, pipeline vandals to desist from activities that tend to sabotage the economy as there is a matching order against them.
In the same vein, Amb. Enaholo also issued a firm warning to fuel and gas station operators to shun all manners of sharp practices as government will not fail to bring them to book. He issued this warning during a meeting with leaders of the Edo State chapter of the Oil and Gas Host Community (HOSTCOM) in his office in Benin City.
Amb. Enaholo said that investors willing to operate in the state should approach the necessary MDAs of government adding that the Ease of Doing Business policy of the state has made the whole process seamless.
He further stated that the Edo State Government under the leadership of Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki is ready to protect their interest by making sure companies in their domain adhere to the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, and their Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR.
He urged them to collaborate with the government in identifying any fuel and gas stations involved in meter alteration, emphasising government’s determination to eradicate such illegal activities from the oil and gas sector of the state.
He asserted that government would ensure the implementation of the “one litre for one litre” policy, adding that consumers should only pay for the exact amount of fuel they receive. The commissioner emphasised that it is unacceptable for individuals to pay for a litre of fuel but end up receiving less.
Amb. Enaholo expressed his gratitude to HOSTCOM for their promise to collaborate with government in realising Governor Obaseki’s MEGA agenda and assured that their cooperation would not be taken for granted.
He requested HOSTCOM to communicate government’s 14-day ultimatum to owners of illegal refineries, notifying them that the countdown to ceasing their operations had already begun.
The state’s chairman of HOSTCOM, Comrade Andrew Nosa, congratulated the commissioner on his appointment and appreciated the steps taken so far since assumption of office. Comrade Nosa pointed out that, Amb. Enaholo’s recent interview on ITV showcased his competence and capacity.
He further expressed the group’s readiness to support Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration in achieving its objective of revitalising and developing Edo State oil and gas sector.
