In a powerful address on the floor of the Senate, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong led a debate on a matter of urgent National importance regarding the need to address continuous importation of hazardous petroleum products into Nigeria.
Ekpenyong intimated the Senate with a recent example of foreign diesel carriers dumping hazardous diesel products on the West African market, with Nigeria being the primary target. He noted that this dumping of products that are below the fair market value is in direct contradiction of the rules of trade as provided by the World Trade Organization. He further queried the logic behind the continuous issuance of import licenses when it has been clearly demonstrated that local operators have the requisite capacity, and are willing to meet the internal petroleum consumption demands of the country.
The Senate unanimously adopted the prayers of the motion, calling for an investigation into regulators and operators in the petroleum sector to uncover any acts of sabotage that hinder growth in this crucial industry.
Ekpenyong’s commitment to Nigeria’s well-being shines through his advocacy for responsible trade practices and sustainable development.