Dangote Petroleum Refinery has refuted claims by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) that its members are facing challenges loading refined products from the refinery, following a payment of ₦40 billion to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). In a statement on Thursday, signed by Group Chief Branding and Communications Officer Anthony Chiejina, Dangote Refinery clarified that it has not directly received any payments from IPMAN members and currently holds no direct business agreements with the association.

IPMAN President Abubakar Garima, speaking on Channels Television, expressed concerns about the refinery’s alleged stance that marketers were bypassing Dangote’s refinery in Lagos for imported petrol. In response, Dangote Refinery stated that discussions with IPMAN are ongoing but highlighted that it cannot be accountable for payments made through NNPCL. The statement further clarified that NNPCL has not authorized the release of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to IPMAN from Dangote Refinery.

Emphasizing its capability to meet national demand, Dangote Refinery encouraged IPMAN to register directly and make payments through its channels. “We would like to emphasize that we can meet the nation’s demand for all petroleum products…we advise IPMAN to register with us and make direct payment,” the statement added.

The refinery also urged restraint in public commentary, advising stakeholders to support economic stability and avoid statements that could disrupt President Tinubu’s economic plans. “Conducting business through public speculation is counterproductive and unpatriotic,” the statement concluded, calling for collaboration over media conflicts.