The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has appealed a court ruling that blocked it from joining the case against Dangote Refinery’s N100 billion import licence. The appeal was filed on March 18, 2025, at the Court of Appeal in Abuja.
Why FCCPC Wants to Be Involved
FCCPC wants to be part of the lawsuit because it believes the case could impact competition in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. The commission argues that if some companies lose their import licences, it could create a monopoly favouring Dangote Refinery.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1324/2024, was filed by Dangote Refinery to challenge import licences issued to other petroleum companies, including NNPC Limited, Matrix Petroleum Services, and A.A. Rano.
High Court’s Decision
Earlier, a Federal High Court judge, Justice Inyang Ekwo, ruled that FCCPC had no relevance in the case. He stated that the matter involved the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which does not give FCCPC authority over oil import licences. As a result, the judge dismissed FCCPC’s request to join the case.
FCCPC’s Response and Appeal
FCCPC disagrees with the ruling and has taken the matter to the Court of Appeal. The commission argues that:
- It has a legal duty to prevent monopolies and protect consumer interests.
- The Federal High Court denied it a fair hearing by ruling that it had no claim in the case.
- Dangote Refinery might abuse its market position if other companies lose their import licences.
FCCPC’s lawyer, Olanrewaju Osinaike, urged the Court of Appeal to overturn the High Court’s decision and allow the commission to join the case.
What Happens Next?
The Court of Appeal will now decide whether FCCPC can participate in the lawsuit. Until then, the High Court’s ruling stands, and Dangote Refinery is set to continue its legal challenge against other oil importers.