Nigerians debate over colorless product of Dangote refinery

Nigerians are abuzz on social media after Aliko Dangote, billionaire businessman and owner of Dangote Refinery, showcased the refinery’s fuel and diesel products, which appear transparent and colorless.

The display was meant to demonstrate the quality of the refinery’s output, but it has also sparked a debate about the significance of fuel color.

Watch the video below;

https://x.com/Blaze915FM/status/1831228085686997493?t=34G6SSC1HaGEsqF2O9LZMA&s=19

Experts have weighed in, explaining that colored fuel doesn’t necessarily mean it’s bad, as producers add colorants to differentiate between fuel, water, and other substances. Similarly, the distinctive smell of gasoline is added to alert people in case of a leakage.

However, some have questioned whether Dangote Refinery’s colorless product, reportedly known as “Virgin C5,” can be sold in the market without approval. This comes after NNPC accused Dangote of seeking an oil monopoly with poor fuel quality in July, leading to a public spat.

Dangote’s demonstration was meant to assure Nigerians that his refinery’s products would be of high quality, lasting longer and being safer for the environment. However, the excitement was short-lived, as NNPC increased the fuel price from ₦560 to ₦900 immediately after reaching a supply agreement with Dangote Refinery. This move has left many Nigerians heartbroken, as they had hoped for a reduction in fuel prices with the refinery’s operations.