IPMAN Raises Alarm Over Suspected Diversion of Petroleum Products

During the Annual General Meeting of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) in Warri, Delta State, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Ben Odjugo, raised concerns about the alleged diversion of petroleum products meant for depots to private individuals. Speaking on behalf of IPMAN Mid West Zone, Odjugo appealed to the Federal Government to address the issue and ensure the availability of petroleum products at Warri Depot while also emphasizing the need to fix the Warri Refinery without further delay.

In his statement, Odjugo criticized previous administrations for claiming to undertake Turn Around Maintenance without tangible results. He urged the government to demonstrate sincerity by taking effective measures to make the Warri Refinery operational. “Until this government is seen to be working and they are able to make the Warri Refinery work, that is when the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will prove to Nigerians that it is sincere,” he declared.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing situation at the depot, Odjugo explained that, due to acrimony and the emergence of several court cases during the election process, IPMAN decided to set aside the election temporarily. Instead, they established a management team to oversee the affairs of the depot until a proper election could be conducted. The management team would assume the responsibilities typically held by the executive, ensuring the smooth operation of the depot.

During the meeting, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Vincent Oyibode, urged IPMAN to conduct itself peacefully. The governor promised the continued support of the state government to the union, emphasizing the crucial role IPMAN plays in the success of the administration. He appealed to the members of the union to remain focused and united for the greater good.

Zino Onaemo, the immediate past Chairman of IPMAN, expressed his frustration at