Oshiomhole Celebrates Regulatory Shake-Up, Demands New Leaders Back Local Refineries

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has publicly celebrated the resignations of the former heads of Nigeria’s key petroleum regulatory bodies, framing their departure as a critical step for the nation’s economic future. His remarks came during the Senate screening of their proposed replacements on Tuesday.

Speaking on the Senate floor, Oshiomhole did not mince words, stating that anyone who opposes domestic job creation in favor of importation “doesn’t deserve to live.” He argued that the previous leadership, under Farouk Ahmed and Gbenga Komolafe, pursued policies that harmed local refineries and stifled employment. “I celebrated the removal of Farouk Ahmed last night…” Oshiomhole declared, emphasizing that true economic growth stems from supporting labor-intensive domestic industries, not importing refined products.

He was joined by Senator David Jimkuta of Taraba South, who echoed the need for change and pressed the new nominees to outline clear reform agendas. The nominees undergoing screening are Oritsemeyiwa Amanorisewo Eyesan (for the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission) and Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed (for the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority).

Oshiomhole directly charged the incoming executives to prioritize Nigeria’s national interest above all else, specifically tasking them with protecting local refinery operations and the jobs they create. He commended President Bola Tinubu for taking decisive action in replacing the controversial appointees, stating it renewed hope for millions of Nigerians whose livelihoods depend on a functional and fair petroleum sector. The senators made it clear that restoring public confidence in the regulators would be a paramount expectation for the new leadership.