Nigerian Oil Marketers Petition FCCPC Over Alleged Dangote Refinery Price Manipulation

A consortium of Nigerian downstream oil marketers has formally petitioned the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), urging the agency to probe what it calls Dangote Refinery’s anti-competitive pricing practices. The marketers claim that the Lagos-based refinery manipulates fuel prices, undermining fair competition and creating uncertainty for buyers across the country.

In the petition, the marketers allege that Dangote Refinery routinely fixes prices at the point of sale, only to announce sudden price reductions after transactions have been completed—without refunding early buyers. Bulk purchasers, who often lift millions of litres at a time, are reportedly the most affected, bearing losses while later buyers benefit from lower rates.

The consortium described this pricing model as a deliberate “disincentive to business,” arguing that it punishes large-scale buyers and threatens the sustainability of companies in the downstream oil sector. According to the marketers, such conduct amounts to an abuse of market dominance, particularly as Dangote Refinery gains increasing control over domestic fuel supply following the removal of petrol subsidies.

The marketers emphasized that the FCCPC was specifically created to tackle price manipulation, monopolistic practices, and anti-competitive conduct in Nigeria. They urged the agency to collaborate with sector regulators to ensure a thorough investigation and, if necessary, enforce sanctions to protect competition and consumer welfare.

The petition comes amid growing concerns about transparency and market concentration in Nigeria’s downstream oil industry. Dangote Refinery has not yet responded to the allegations, leaving industry observers and consumers awaiting the FCCPC’s decision on a matter that could have far-reaching implications for the country’s fuel market.

source: saharareporter