Ex-Militant Leader Retson Tedheke Defends Dangote, Slams Government Over Refinery Controversy
By Lawrence Audu
In a fiery statement, former Niger-Delta militant leader Retson Tedheke has come out in strong support of billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, whose refinery has been at the centre of a controversy over diesel quality.
Tedheke, who has since turned to nationalism and agricultural activism, accused the government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) of sabotaging Dangote’s efforts to produce high-quality diesel locally.
Tedheke alleged that the government and NNPC have been complicit in the illegal oil trade, collecting commissions for decades while failing to stop the illegal refining and importation of diesel.
He claimed that their criticism of Dangote’s diesel is motivated by a desire to maintain their grip on the illegal oil trade and protect the interests of foreign powers.
The former militant leader praised Dangote for his bravery in investing over $20 billion in the refinery, stating that he is a solution to Nigeria’s petroleum product problems.
He called on Nigerians to educate themselves on the machinations of the IMF and World Bank, citing John Perkins’ book “Confessions of an Economic Hitman” as a resource.
Tedheke concluded by stating that the government’s failure to protect local industries and promote economic nationalism is a recipe for disaster and that Dangote’s efforts should be supported rather than sabotaged.
This development comes as the controversy over Dangote’s refinery continues to simmer, with many calling for the government to support local industries rather than relying on imported products.
