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The Sierra Leone Petroleum Dealers and Transporters Union (SLPDTU) has formally expressed grave concern regarding the fuel marking methodology and testing procedures currently enforced by the National Revenue Authority (NRA) and its contracted partner, SICPA, calling for an immediate suspension of all testing until an independent audit can be conducted.
In a press release issued on February 25, 2026, the Union stated that despite a series of engagements mediated by the National Petroleum Regulatory Agency (NPRA), there is still no breakthrough in resolving the disputes over the fuel marking system .
While the Union fully supports the Government’s efforts to monitor product identity and secure revenue, it finds the current implementation by SICPA to be “fundamentally flawed”.
According to the statement, petroleum dealers contribute 0.24 Leones per liter sold toward fuel marking, and the Union maintains that dealers must not be held liable for systemic failures in a process they do not control.
The Union’s primary concerns include:
Lack of Efficacy: The Union questions the consistency and quality of the marker used, stating that inconsistencies in the application process have led to unwarranted variances during testing.
Conflict of Interest: SICPA currently manages both the marking and the subsequent testing. The Union describes this “player and referee” dynamic as lacking the transparency and independent oversight necessary for a fair industry .
Disregarded Alternative: The Union previously proposed a product-coloring method as a more transparent alternative; however, this recommendation was disregarded .
The Union warns that the NRA’s attempt to levy heavy fines and penalties based on what it describes as flawed tests threatens the livelihoods of its members and risks creating significant disruptions within the downstream petroleum sector .
The SLPDTU maintains that the current atmosphere of unfairness is unsustainable. The Union hereby calls on NPRA, NRA, and/or SICPA to immediately suspend all testing until a competent, independent body can conduct a comprehensive audit of their system .
The SLPDTU states it remains committed to cooperation, provided that the process is governed by transparency, consistency, and fairness .
The press release was issued from the Union’s headquarters at 151B Kissy Road, Freetown, and signed by the Secretary General .
