The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has affirmed that the petrol supplied by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) meets the highest industry standards. This statement comes after a viral video surfaced over the weekend, alleging that NNPCL’s premium motor spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, was of substandard quality.
In response, PETROAN spokesperson Joseph Obele clarified in a statement on Sunday that the association had conducted thorough tests on NNPCL’s petroleum products following the claims made in the video. The tests were in comparison to a claim that MRS Oil’s petrol lasted longer than that of NNPCL.
Obele highlighted the comprehensive nature of the tests, which included assessments of flash point, density, viscosity, sulfur content, water content, and ash content. He confirmed that all results were satisfactory, with NNPCL’s petrol meeting and exceeding the required industry standards.
Key findings from the tests include:
- Flash Point: Exceeded minimum requirements, indicating low ignition risk.
- Density: Met prescribed standards, ensuring optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
- Viscosity: Fell within acceptable ranges, ensuring smooth engine operation and minimizing wear.
- Sulfur Content: Met regulatory limits, helping reduce engine corrosion and environmental impact.
- Water Content: Well below the maximum allowable limit, ensuring fuel stability.
- Ash Content: Met regulatory limits, helping prevent engine wear and tear.
Obele reiterated the association’s confidence in NNPCL’s commitment to delivering high-quality fuel. He also urged the public to disregard the misleading information in the viral video and rely on verified sources for accurate details.
PETROAN President Billy Gillis-Harry also weighed in, emphasizing the economic risks of spreading false information. “We urge content creators to be mindful of the consequences of misinformation, as it can have devastating effects on the economy,” he stated.
Additionally, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, strongly refuted the allegations in the viral video, calling the claims “baseless” and the research “unverified and amateur.” He affirmed that the company’s fuel products meet rigorous standards and are subjected to strict professional oversight.
