Senior Counsel Ahmednasir Abdullahi has cautioned that powerful interests could interfere with the planned multi-billion oil refinery in Lamu by Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote.
In a blunt statement, Ahmednasir outlined what he described as “three enemies” that could derail the project if not checked early.
He pointed to sections of the judiciary, litigators, and political brokers as potential sources of disruption.
“The proposed Dangote refinery in Lamu has three enemies who must be kept at bay,” he said.
“These are: (a) corrupt judges ready to issue injunctions and conservatory orders as they negotiate for their cut (b) commercial litigators in the guise of public spirited litigants wanting to make a kill, and (c) political rent seekers… ready to throw spanner in the works unless paid or given subcontracts.”
He argued that the project is too critical to be delayed by court battles or political interference, warning that similar patterns have affected major investments in the past.
The refinery, expected to cost up to KSh 2.6 trillion, will be located in Lamu and is projected to process about 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day.
Once complete, it could significantly reduce Kenya’s reliance on imported petroleum products and position the country as a regional energy hub.
Ahmednasir also revisited earlier attempts by Dangote to invest in Kenya, claiming previous administrations failed to secure the deal due to demands for equity and kickbacks.
“Dangote ALWAYS wanted to invest in Kenya BIG TIME,” he said. “But the boys and men who called the shots in Kibaki's and Uhuru's State House wanted crazy equity as kickbacks.”
He contrasted that with the current administration led by President William Ruto, saying the investor had been allowed to proceed without such demands.
“That is why it's commendable that H.E William Ruto opened the investment door to Dangote and allowed him to put his dollars in Kenya on HIS TERMS,” he added.
The remarks come as early groundwork begins on the project, with attention now turning to approvals, financing, and stakeholder engagement.
Large infrastructure developments in Kenya have historically faced legal and political challenges, raising questions about how smoothly the Lamu refinery will progress.
Ahmednasir’s comments highlight concerns within sections of the legal and political space over the handling of major foreign investments and the need to balance oversight with timely execution.