The Federal Government has been urged by the Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER) to activate dormant oil metering contracts to prevent duplication and potential revenue loss.
On Monday, CASER raised concerns about recent awards for oil and gas metering contracts, suggesting they overlap with existing agreements. Frank Tietie, CASER’s Director of Advocacy, highlighted the risk of undermining Nigeria’s national interests and alleged high-level corruption.
Tietie questioned the inaction of the Nigerian Shippers Council and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, who have not activated the existing contract. He pointed out that the new contracts may duplicate services already covered, leading to potential inefficiencies and corruption.
CASER has initiated a freedom of information request to investigate the details of the contract awards and beneficiaries, aiming to ensure transparency and accountability.
Tietie stated, “We need to understand why the Nigerian Shippers Council and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy have not implemented the existing contract. Instead, we see a duplication of efforts, which seems driven by corruption or a vested interest group benefitting from the status quo.”
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, halt the unjust duplication of contracts, and hold accountable those involved in what CASER views as corrupt practices. The organization remains committed to ensuring that government institutions operate transparently and in the public’s interest.
News Editor 
Hyelsinta Hassan