Yahaya Ndu, a former presidential candidate of the now-defunct African Renaissance Party, has called for the legalisation of artisanal refineries in Nigeria's Niger Delta region. Ndu argues that enhancing local refining capabilities is essential for resolving the country's ongoing energy crisis, rather than merely debating the reinstatement of fuel subsidies.

In an exclusive interview, Ndu expressed his discontent over the government's continued destruction of local modular refineries, often labelled as illegal oil bunkering sites by security forces. He described the current discussions about fuel subsidy restoration as an affront to the intelligence of Nigerians, stating, "It is an insult to our collective intelligence for us to be talking about whether you should bring back fuel subsidy or not."

Drawing from historical context, Ndu referenced the Biafran civil war, noting that fuel scarcity was not an issue during that period due to local refining efforts. He pointed out that over 5,000 cottage refineries have been dismantled by the government, which he believes hampers local economic growth and industrial self-reliance. He advocates for a shift in policy that would legalise these refineries, enabling the government to assist operators, monitor their activities, and ensure environmental standards are upheld.

"What makes them illegal? It is not only when you build gigantic refineries like Dangote’s that you can refine crude," Ndu remarked. He emphasised that the push for subsidy restoration comes from the same individuals who previously advocated for its removal, highlighting a contradiction in their stance.

Beyond the energy sector, Ndu also addressed broader political issues, urging major political parties to consider yielding their presidential tickets to candidates from the South-East. He drew parallels to the political consensus following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections, which saw presidential tickets zoned to the South-West to address regional grievances. Ndu asserted that the South-East, having faced significant political marginalisation, deserves similar consideration.

"Democracy is essentially about mass participation and consensus, not individual talents alone," he stated, advocating for fairness in political representation.

On the pressing issue of security in Nigeria, Ndu warned against allowing state police to fall under the control of partisan politicians. He proposed that state police forces should be managed by community leaders, including traditional rulers and religious figures, to ensure that those most affected by insecurity have a direct say in their protection. He lamented that current federal police structures are often detached from the realities faced by ordinary citizens, who bear the brunt of insecurity in their communities.

Ndu's proposals highlight a call for a more inclusive and locally driven approach to both energy production and governance in Nigeria, aiming to empower local communities and address longstanding issues of marginalisation and insecurity.