In response to a persistent misinformation campaign, LeonOil Company Limited, a renowned petroleum marketing entity in Sierra Leone, feels compelled to clarify the facts surrounding a transaction conducted three years ago with SKM Enterprise, led by CEO Jaffer Zeghir. This step is necessary to counter years of unwarranted attacks against the company and its CEO, Mr. Ibrahim Cole, which have distorted the truth and misled the public.

The transaction in question occurred three years ago when Mr. Zeghir purchased 430,000 liters of fuel, of which 230,000 liters were uplifted. Despite multiple attempts to inform Mr. Zeghir about an impending change in price by the Government of Sierra Leone via the National Revenue Authority, and urging him to collect the remaining 200,000 liters promptly, he claimed his stations and bulk road vehicles were full and unable to receive more product at that time. Standard operating procedure dictates that buyers must receive the remaining product before any government-mandated price changes, or they are liable to pay the difference. 

Despite efforts to refund the money for the uncollected 200,000 liters, Mr. Zeghir refused to comply, leading to a protracted legal battle. It's important to note that all entities, including governmental bodies, foreign embassies, NGOs, and consumers, operate within these established rules set by the Government of Sierra Leone, which have been upheld for the past four decades.

Following a court ruling against LeonOil, exempting Mr. Zeghir and SKM from paying taxes due to the government, the company has filed an appeal in good faith. The appeal challenges the ruling on the grounds that it contradicts Sierra Leone's tax laws and sets a dangerous precedent for tax evasion. Contrary to circulating rumors, the appeal process is ongoing, with the Court of Appeal yet to commence hearings.

LeonOil reaffirms its commitment to upholding the law, promoting fairness, and preserving integrity in all its dealings.