By Adenike Lawal
The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed September 29, 2025, to hear a suit filed by Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE against the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), and five petroleum marketers over alleged illegal fuel import licenses.
Justice Mohammed Umar granted an adjournment after Dangote’s counsel, George Ibrahim, SAN, requested time for parties to regularize filings.
The suit, originally before Justice Inyang Ekwo, is restarting under Justice Umar.
Dangote seeks the nullification of import licenses granted by the Nigeria Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), arguing they violate Sections 317(8) and (9) of the Petroleum Industry Act. It also demands ₦100 billion in damages, citing harm to its operations.
NNPCL has filed a preliminary objection, claiming misidentification and lack of jurisdiction.
The NMDPRA defends the licenses, stating Dangote’s refinery is not yet fully operational to meet demand.
Three marketers; AYM Shafa, A.A. Rano, and Matrix Petroleum, warn the suit could create a monopoly. Meanwhile, the FCCPC seeks to join the case, citing its regulatory mandate.
Justice Umar ruled that the matter would proceed despite the FCCPC’s pending appeal.
