– Warns of Economic and Governance Fallout
Monrovia, Liberia — The Guide To Justice Action Network (GUJAN) has issued a strong rebuke of the Liberia Petroleum Refinery Company (LPRC), warning that the state-owned enterprise is veering dangerously outside its legal mandate by engaging directly in the importation of fuel and gas.
In a statement signed by Amb. Emmanuel Layee Togbah, Executive Director of GUJAN, the organization described the move as a “blatant overreach” that poses an existential threat to Liberia’s private sector, job security, and overall economic integrity.
Undermining the Private Sector
Historically, LPRC has operated as a logistical support agency for licensed private fuel importers, having long failed to fulfill its original refinery purpose. GUJAN contends that the company’s sudden pivot toward direct importation violates established norms and betrays public trust, with potentially catastrophic consequences for legitimate petroleum businesses across Liberia.
“These businesses have provided stable employment for hundreds of Liberians and contributed meaningfully to the economy,” the statement read. “LPRC’s actions now jeopardize these gains.”
Red Flags Over Foreign Dealings and Corruption
GUJAN also raised alarm over reports suggesting LPRC’s dealings with foreign firms previously sanctioned for financial misconduct. If substantiated, these associations could drag Liberia into international sanctions regimes and inflict long-term reputational harm.
Adding to the concerns are allegations of internal conflicts of interest, with suspicions that members of LPRC’s leadership may have personal financial stakes in incoming petroleum shipments. Such revelations point to potential corruption, abuse of office, and economic sabotage.
Concerns Over Financial Backing
According to GUJAN, major financial institutions—including Ecobank—may be underwriting the venture, inadvertently positioning themselves at the heart of an operation that undermines fair market principles.
“This is not a routine business dispute. It is a crisis of governance and a hostile takeover of a vital sector by a public entity,” Amb. Togbah emphasized.
Call to Action
The statement concluded with a four-point call to action:
1. Immediate legislative investigation into LPRC’s activities
2. Inquiries by the LACC, FIU, and relevant oversight bodies
3. A formal warning to financial institutions to disengage from the venture
4. Mobilization of civil society, labor unions, and media to demand accountability
GUJAN described the situation as a “national emergency” and urged swift action to safeguard legality, employment, and Liberia’s standing in the global community.
About GUJAN
The Guide To Justice Action Network is a civil society organization committed to defending the rights of Liberians, especially in employment and legal redress.
