A civil society organisation, Nigeria Citizens’ Watch for Good Governance, has urged the Federal Government to investigate those who are importing toxic fuel into the country, News About Nigeria reports.
The National President of the Society, Eshiofeh Collins, made this call in a statement, maintaining that the alleged importation of toxic fuel poses severe health risks, including respiratory diseases and reduced life expectancy, particularly in the Niger Delta region.
The CSO noted that substandard petroleum products are being imported from Russia via Malta, blended, and shipped to Nigeria, violating the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and putting the health of Nigerians at risk.
They demanded an immediate investigation by the Department of State Services (DSS), the Police, and other relevant agencies into these harmful practices, insisting that any individuals found guilty must face legal consequences.
The CSO also issued a seven-day ultimatum, expiring on Thursday, for authorities to address these issues, stating that failure to act will compel them to mobilise Nigerians to peacefully occupy filling stations and jetties nationwide.
The statement reads in part, “We urgently call upon relevant authorities to investigate serious allegations against Matrix Energy Group. These actions have severe consequences, including economic sabotage and significant environmental damage. The health risks are also alarming, with potential respiratory diseases and reduced life expectancy, particularly in the Niger Delta region.
“We demand immediate action. We call for a thorough investigation by the DSS, police, and other relevant agencies into these harmful practices. Any individual found guilty must face legal consequences.
“The company must be transparent and accountable regarding their business practices and compliance with regulatory standards. We issue a seven-day ultimatum, expiring on Thursday, for authorities to address these issues. Failure to act will compel us to mobilise Nigerians to peacefully occupy Matrix Energy filling stations and jetties nationwide.”
