Fix Warri and Kaduna Refineries or Face Legal Action- Falana Warns SAIPEM

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana has formally requested completion dates for the rehabilitation of the Warri and Kaduna refineries from SAIPEM Contracting Nigeria Limited before September 24.

In a letter addressed to the company’s Managing Director, Falana highlighted that the contracts, awarded by the Federal Government of Nigeria, are valued at $1.5 billion.

The contracts issued in April 2021, with the rehabilitation work divided into three phases, each with projected completion times of 21, 23, and 33 months.

In his letter, dated September 17, 2024, Falana noted: “I am Femi Falana, a Nigerian lawyer and the Chair of the Alliance on Surviving COVID-19 and Beyond (ASCAB), a non-governmental organization in Nigeria.

“I have confirmed that the Federal Government of Nigeria awarded the contracts for the rehabilitation of Warri and Kaduna refineries in Nigeria to your reputable company for the sum of US$1.5bn.

“In line with the terms of the contract which was awarded sometime in April 2021, the project was required to have been completed in three phases of 21, 23, and 33 months.

“As you are no doubt aware, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited has, on several occasions, postponed the completion dates of the rehabilitation of the Warri and Kaduna refineries.

“It has therefore become necessary to request the Management of your company to furnish me with information on the completion dates of the rehabilitation of the Warri and Kaduna.

Citing the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, Falana demanded that SAIPEM provide detailed completion timelines for both refineries within seven days.

He emphasized that such information is vital for ensuring accountability among contractors and the government, which is essential for Nigeria’s domestic refining capabilities and reducing reliance on fuel imports.

He further stated that delays in completion dates had been frequent and failure to heed his request before September 24, will lead to legal actions.