The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Fuel scarcity

  • Mister Fuel Scarcity

    Mister Fuel Scarcity

    I want to know what Engineer Farouk Ahmed is doing about fuel scarcity. He is the fellow who heads the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). As of April 28th, his agency reported stock profile of fuel at 1.547 billion litres. That is a lot of fuel.

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) confirmed this. That means two things. One, we should not have fuel scarcity with such plenty. Two, Ahmed’s agency should not be in the news. Both are unfortunately in the news. What we have is a new definition of the embarrassment of riches. We have but can’t get or see. Motor spirit under Ahmed’s eyes and watch has become a spirit.

    It is the job of the CEO of NMDPRA to ensure that fuel is supplied and that the motor spirit reaches the final mile: the motorist. If that is not happening it is because of the inefficiency of one man: Farouk Ahmed. He is supposed to deploy forces across the country, from petrol station to depot, to ensure there is no grease monkey doing monkey business with our oil.

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    But Ahmed is missing in action. Hence, we have oil marketers taking advantage. They provide enough fuel in the stations to tease a hungry public. Then enters arbitrage. Arbitrage only prospers amidst sabotage. Oil marketers are making a shylock’s profit just by allowing the ordinary citizen to queue, crawl and cry for drops of fuel. NNPCL said there was a vessel problem and it has been addressed. NMDPRA was aware of this and the logistic snafu had been resolved.

    So, major supplier NNPCL said we had enough for 30 days. In less than three days, the crisis persisted. It is therefore over to the regulator, not NNPCL, to ensure that all is well. He should do his task and right now; or else, he remains Mister Fuel Scarcity.

  • Fuel scarcity: Logistic problems addressed, says Reps petroleum committees

    Fuel scarcity: Logistic problems addressed, says Reps petroleum committees

    …say petrol to flood markets in a day or two

    The House of Representatives Committees on Petroleum Resources (Midstream and Downstream) announced on Wednesday that logistical issues contributing to the fuel crisis, which is currently inflicting hardship on Nigerians, have been resolved.

    The chairmen of the committees, Ikenga Ugochinyere and Hon Henry Odianosen Okojie, respectively, said this in a briefing with reporters at the National Assembly Complex on Wednesday.

    They said the logistic issues range from difficulty experienced in transporting products from the mother vessels to onshore, movement of products with marine shuttle vessels, and disruption in the Escravos channels among others.

    Reading a statement signed by both of them, Ugochinyere assured that in a day or two petrol would flood the market bringing an end to queues currently being experienced in stations across the country.

    He said they have gotten assurances from the regulators in the distribution value chain that these bottlenecks have been cleared.

    The lawmaker said from their investigations, there is availability of petroleum products.

    He added that the country’s storage facilities have, at least, about 1.5 billion liters of petrol that can last for 30 days.

    He said on the Issue of the return of fuel queues, they had in the last few days reached out to the stakeholders in the petroleum distribution value chain.

    Those stakeholders include the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), and the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to mention a few. We have engaged extensively with them, with a view to ascertaining the cause of the resurgence of the fuel queues in petrol stations across the country.

    He expressed concerns over the temporary presence of fuel queues in petrol stations across the country.

    “However, we are convinced that this is temporary based on our investigation, and in a couple of days, we shall get over it,” he said.

    Ugochinyere said in the course of the public holiday, more grounds will be covered.

    The statement reads: “From our findings, the issues that necessitated the disruptions which led to the appearance of fuel queues in petrol stations have been cleared. Obviously, it will take a few more days for things to return back to normalcy. Therefore, we call on Nigerians not to panic over this development.

    “We have gotten assurances from the regulators and the unions, that these challenges will be cleared in a few days. It will require more time, like two to three days, for products to be distributed to all stations nationwide. As a Committee that is charged with downstream and midstream oversight, we have been monitoring this development. Also, in line with our legislative duties of over-sighting the downstream and midstream petroleum sector, we have been in touch with the key stakeholders, the regulatory bodies, and the transport unions, with a view to ensuring that the products get to our people timeously and without further delay.

    Read Also: Fuel scarcity: Mercenaries behind NANS’ call for Kyari’s removal — ESG

    “At this juncture, we strongly frown at the activities of middlemen who have taken advantage of the short disruption of supply, to maximize profit and generate inordinate gain for themselves, at the detriment of our people. We hereby call on security forces to support the NNPCL, NMDPRA, PETROAN, NARTO, and other key stakeholders in the distribution value chain, so as to ensure that such acts of economic sabotage that have to do with hoarding, arbitrary increment in price, products diversion and smuggling are detected and dealt with. Our people have been through a lot in the last few days and we must not plunge them into further pains. We appeal to all traders and those rendering services, not to unduly take advantage of this temporary challenge, which will be cleared in the next few days.

    “As House of Representatives Committees which oversights activities of regulators and operators in the downstream and midstream petroleum sectors, we have resolved that going forward and in order to avert a recurrence of this temporary challenge of distribution disruption which have attendant economic pains and spiral effect on the general welfare of our people, we shall investigate the remote and immediate causes of the temporary disruption.

    “We shall work with the NNPCL, NMDPRA, PETROAN, NARTO, and other key stakeholders in the distribution chain, towards finding a sustainable solution in ensuring that we do not run into such avoidable disruption in the near future, which can hamper economic activities.

    “On this note, we want to appreciate our Speaker, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abass, Ph.D, has been very concerned in the last few days and has been on top of the situation with our Committees in the course of our interface with the regulators and key stakeholders in the industry. We also want to appreciate all stakeholders ranging from the NNPCL, NMDPRA, PETROAN, NARTO, and other key stakeholders in the distribution value chain for their patriotic efforts in the last few days geared towards resolving this temporary disruption. We wish all Nigerians and workers, a happy workers’ day.

    “We assure you that there is no cause for alarm. Products are available and will in a few days be circulated across the country. As the people’s parliament and as a Committee of Midstream and Downstream, we would be awake to our legislative duties and ensure that all the timelines are met and kept. We shall also work with the stakeholders to ensure that the issues are fixed. Happy workers’ day.”

    Hon Okojie added that Nigerians should not engage in panic buying as it is unnecessary.

    “As a committee, we have engaged sufficiently with the appropriate authorities in terms of fuel distribution and as of today the report we are getting suggests that the fuel queues have started reducing and products have started arriving at the petrol stations.

    “The challenges that caused the disruption was the logistics issues and that has been handled with the maritime shuttle vessels as we speak, which will move products to marketers who are on standby waiting to serve the people.

    “The logistics issues have been resolved completely and hopefully supply to stations will increase in a few days. There is no need to panic. Fuel is available and soon distribution will begin. In another day or two, there would not be fuel queues anymore in the country,” Okojie said.

  • Synergies and responsibilities in addressing persistent fuel scarcity in Nigeria

    Synergies and responsibilities in addressing persistent fuel scarcity in Nigeria

    By: Ojo Emmanuel Ademola 

    Fuel scarcity is a pressing issue in Nigeria, with long queues at petrol stations and disruptions to daily life becoming all too common. While the root causes of this problem are complex and multifaceted, citizens have a pivotal role to play in finding solutions and addressing the challenges at hand. By taking proactive steps and embracing sustainable practices, individuals can contribute to a more secure and resilient energy future for the country.

    In addressing the ongoing challenge of persistent fuel scarcity in Nigeria, it is crucial to explore synergistic approaches that involve a combination of efforts from various stakeholders. By delving into the underlying issues and thought processes contributing to this dilemma, we can better identify effective solutions for both immediate relief and sustainable future outcomes. This discussion aims to shed light on the synergies that can be harnessed to tackle the root causes of fuel scarcity, as well as the critical role of citizens in taking up their responsibilities to address this pressing issue.

    Issues:

    1. Inadequate refining capacity: Nigeria relies heavily on fuel imports as its refineries are not functioning at nil or full capacity. This leads to frequent shortages and long queues at filling stations.

    2. Corruption and inefficiency: The fuel distribution system in Nigeria is plagued by corruption and inefficiency, leading to hoarding and diversion of fuel meant for the general public.

    3. Poor infrastructure: The transportation and distribution network for fuel in Nigeria is inadequate and poorly maintained, leading to delays and shortages.

    4. Subsidy removal: The government’s decision to remove fuel subsidies has led to higher fuel prices, making it difficult for many Nigerians to afford fuel.

    Thought processes:

    1. Increase refining capacity: Nigeria needs to invest in upgrading and expanding its refineries to reduce its reliance on imports and ensure a steady supply of fuel.

    2. Improve governance and regulation: The government needs to tackle corruption in the fuel distribution system and strengthen regulations to prevent hoarding and diversion of fuel.

    3. Enhance infrastructure: Investments in infrastructure such as pipelines, storage facilities, and transportation networks are crucial to ensure the efficient distribution of fuel.

    4. Diversify the energy sector: Nigeria should explore alternative sources of energy such as renewable energy to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and mitigate the impact of fuel shortages.

    Solutions for now:

    1. Ensure transparency in fuel distribution: The government should enforce strict regulations and penalties for those found hoarding or diverting fuel meant for the public.

    2. Invest in infrastructure: Prioritize investments in infrastructure to improve the transportation and distribution of fuel across the country.

    3. Subsidy reforms: Implement targeted subsidy programs to mitigate the impact of fuel price increases on the most vulnerable populations.

    4. Public awareness campaigns: Educate the public on the causes of fuel scarcity and the importance of conserving fuel to reduce demand.

    Solutions for the future:

    1. Renewable energy transition: Invest in renewable energy sources to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and ensure sustainability in the long term.

    2. Deregulation of the energy sector: Implement policies to encourage competition and investment in the energy sector to increase efficiency and reduce reliance on imports.

    3. Promote innovation: Support research and development in alternative fuels and technologies to diversify the energy mix and reduce dependency on traditional fuels.

    In exploring solutions to the persistent fuel scarcity issue in Nigeria, it is valuable to look at examples of other nations that have faced and successfully overcome similar challenges. By studying the experiences of countries that have effectively addressed their fuel scarcity problems, we can gain insights into the strategies and measures that have proven successful in resolving such issues. This comparative analysis can provide valuable lessons and inspiration for devising effective solutions that can be adapted to the Nigerian context.

    One example of a nation that has successfully overcome fuel scarcity challenges is Brazil. In the 1970s, Brazil faced frequent fuel shortages due to its heavy dependence on imported oil. However, the government implemented several policies and initiatives to address these issues, leading to Brazil becoming a self-sufficient and leading producer of biofuels, particularly ethanol.

    Brazil’s success in overcoming fuel scarcity included the following strategies:

    1. Diversification of energy sources: Brazil invested heavily in biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel to reduce its reliance on imported oil. This transition to renewable energy sources helped to ensure a stable and secure fuel supply.

    2. Government support and incentives: The Brazilian government implemented policies to promote the production and consumption of biofuels, including tax incentives, subsidies, and mandates for blending biofuels with gasoline.

    3. Infrastructure development: Brazil invested in building a robust infrastructure for the production, distribution, and consumption of biofuels, including ethanol refineries, storage facilities, and fueling stations.

    4. Technological innovation: Brazil made significant advancements in research and development of biofuel technologies, leading to more efficient production processes and higher-quality fuels.

    Today, Brazil is a global leader in biofuel production and exports, with over 40% of its transportation fuel coming from biofuels. The country has significantly reduced its dependence on imported oil, ensuring a stable and secure fuel supply for its citizens. This successful transition serves as an example of how a nation can overcome fuel scarcity challenges through diversification, government support, infrastructure development, and technological innovation.

    Another example of a nation that has successfully addressed fuel scarcity challenges is Malaysia. Malaysia faced issues with fuel supply insecurity due to its heavy dependence on imported oil and the volatility of global oil prices. To overcome these challenges, Malaysia implemented several strategies to ensure a stable and secure fuel supply for its citizens.

    One key initiative that Malaysia undertook was to promote the development of its domestic oil and gas resources. The country invested in exploration and production activities to increase its oil and gas reserves, thereby reducing its reliance on imported fuel. Malaysia also diversified its energy sources by investing in renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric power, solar energy, and biomass.

    Furthermore, Malaysia implemented policies to promote energy efficiency and conservation, including the introduction of energy efficiency standards, fuel subsidies, and public awareness campaigns. The government also prioritized the development of alternative fuels, such as biodiesel and biofuels, to reduce reliance on traditional fossil fuels.

    As a result of these efforts, Malaysia was able to ensure a stable and secure fuel supply for its citizens, despite external factors such as fluctuating global oil prices. The country’s successful strategies in addressing fuel scarcity challenges serve as a valuable example for other nations facing similar issues.

    Nonetheless, exploring the benefits of Nigeria’s membership in the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and how this affiliation could potentially assist in addressing challenges such as fuel scarcity is crucial. By examining the advantages that come with being a part of OPEC, we can consider the resources, support systems, and collaborative opportunities available through this organization that may present viable solutions to Nigeria’s fuel scarcity issues. Understanding the significance of Nigeria’s OPEC membership and its potential role in alleviating fuel shortages is essential in devising comprehensive strategies for addressing this pressing concern.

    Nigeria, as a member of the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), benefits from several advantages that could potentially help alleviate the challenges of fuel scarcity in the country:

    1. Market stability: OPEC member countries work together to coordinate oil production levels, prices, and export policies. This helps stabilize global oil markets and reduce price volatility, which can indirectly benefit Nigeria by providing a more predictable revenue stream from oil exports.

    2. Production quotas: OPEC members agree to production quotas to manage global oil supply and demand. By adhering to these quotas, Nigeria can contribute to maintaining a balance in the oil market, which can help support stable prices and secure export markets.

    3. Policy coordination: Being a member of OPEC allows Nigeria to participate in discussions and decision-making processes that shape global oil policies. This can provide Nigeria with insights into market trends, production forecasts, and geopolitical developments that may impact its oil industry and fuel supply.

    4. Information sharing: OPEC provides member countries with data and analysis on global oil markets, demand projections, and emerging trends. This information can help Nigeria make informed decisions about its oil production, export strategies, and long-term energy policies.

    While being a member of OPEC offers advantages in terms of market stability, coordination, and information sharing, it is important for Nigeria to also address domestic challenges, such as refining capacity, infrastructure development, and economic diversification, to effectively tackle the issue of fuel scarcity in the country. Collaborating with other OPEC members and implementing domestic reforms can complement each other and contribute to a more sustainable and secure energy future for Nigeria.

    Furthermore,  it is essential to consider the role and responsibility of citizens in addressing and resolving this issue.

    Citizens play a crucial role in solving the problem of fuel scarcity in Nigeria. Here are some ways in which citizens can contribute to addressing this challenge:

    1. Conservation: Citizens can reduce their fuel consumption by carpooling, using public transportation, walking, or biking whenever possible. By using fuel more efficiently, individuals can help alleviate the strain on fuel supply and reduce overall demand.

    2. Support alternative energy sources: Citizens can advocate for and invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, as alternatives to traditional fuel sources. This can help diversify the energy mix and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

    3. Demand accountability: Citizens can hold government officials and fuel suppliers accountable for addressing the root causes of fuel scarcity, such as inadequate infrastructure, corruption, and mismanagement. By speaking out against inefficiencies and advocating for transparency and reform, citizens can push for long-term solutions to the problem.

    4. Promote local production: Citizens can support local initiatives to increase domestic oil production, refine crude oil locally, and invest in infrastructure improvements. By promoting local production and reducing dependence on imported fuel, citizens can help strengthen the country’s energy security and resilience.

    Read Also: Fuel scarcity: Residents groan over hike in transportation fares in Osun

    5. Participate in community initiatives: Citizens can join or support community-based initiatives that promote sustainability, energy efficiency, and responsible fuel use. By working together with neighbours, local organizations, and businesses, citizens can collaborate to find innovative solutions to the problem of fuel scarcity.

    Overall, citizens have a key role to play in addressing fuel scarcity in Nigeria by adopting sustainable practices, advocating for change, supporting local initiatives, and fostering a culture of responsible energy consumption. By taking individual and collective action, citizens can contribute to a more secure, resilient, and sustainable energy future for the country.

    In conclusion, the problem of fuel scarcity in Nigeria requires a coordinated and multi-faceted approach, with citizens playing a crucial role in finding lasting solutions. By conserving energy, supporting alternative sources, demanding accountability, promoting local production, and participating in community initiatives, individuals can contribute to alleviating the strain on fuel supply and building a more sustainable energy system. Through collective action and shared responsibility, citizens can help address the root causes of fuel scarcity and pave the way for a more secure and resilient energy future in Nigeria.

  • UPDATED: Drama as Senators fight over seats in newly renovated chamber

    UPDATED: Drama as Senators fight over seats in newly renovated chamber

    The resumption of the Senate from its Easter and Sallah break on Tuesday was almost enmeshed in rowdy session as senators literally fought over seats.

    The plenary commenced around 11:00am after the Senate President Godswill Akpabio arrived the chamber and took his seat.

    Akpabio, after saying the statutory prayers, announced the names of Senators who had their birthdays while the Senate was away on recess.

    It was while the announcement was ongoing that Senator Sahabi Ya’u (APC – Zamfara North) was observed speaking in a high tone to the Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC – Ekiti Central) who talked back, pointing finger at Ya’u as if warning him about something.

    Senator Danjuma Goje (APC, Gombe Central) immediately joined his colleague, Ya’u, in shouting at Bamidele and Chairman, Senate Services Committee, Senator Sunday Karimi (APC – Kogi West) who is in charge of the seating arrangements on the Senate.

    It was later learnt that the commotion was occasioned by the new seating arrangement for Senators in the newly renovated main chamber. 

    Some ranking Senators were said to have been angry at the seats allocated to them in the front row on the last right side of the aisle.

    The Senate President eventually calmed the situation when he told the aggrieved Senators to approach the chair one after the other but Senator Ya’u appeared not to be inclined to do that.

    The rowdy session lasted for about 20 minutes as senators bickered.

    Thereafter, the Senate President read his welcome speech while the Senate Leader, moved that the Senate should go into an executive session which is always held behind closed doors.

    The executive session commenced by 12:05pm.

    However, Senate spokesman Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC – Ekiti South) in a statement after plenary denied there was any fight or angry exchange between Senators over sitting arrangements in the newly renovated Senate chambers during the resumption session.

    Adaramodu said: “There was no disagreement, rancour or any verbal tirade in respect of the seating arrangements in the Senate chamber.

    “The Senate resumed today in the newly renovated chamber and the seating positions of Senators were done in accordance to the established Legislative protocols.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Senators fight over seats in newly renovated chamber

    “It’s pertinent to know that rankings of Senators and leadership positions are considered. All legislators all over the world know and accept this tradition.

    “The new arrangements in the chamber today did not depart from this. Every Senator is thus considered based on this Legislative tradition, hence there couldn’t be any confusion over seating arrangements. Senators have been observing this seating protocols, even in the temporary chamber, hence the unfounded story of a phantom fight over seating arrangements is an unscrupulous attempt to drag the image of the Senate into an unnecessary and needless controversy.

    “The general public should disregard this odious song of sorrow from these incorrigible  wholesalers and retailers of falsehood.”

    The Senate had on March 20, adjourned plenary till April 16, but postponed resumption twice to allow for the completion of the chamber which had been under renovation since 2022.

  • Fuel scarcity: Normalcy returning as stations get supply

    Fuel scarcity: Normalcy returning as stations get supply

    Queues are beginning to vanish from filling stations across major cities after the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd intervened in the logistic issues that breached the supply of premium motor spirit (PMS).

    In Abuja, filling stations are getting supply with queues disappearing across major locations like Kubwa, Central Area, Wuse, Maitama, and Gwarimpa.

    Speaking on the development, a top official said, “The fuel stations round shows that the situation is calm. All stations have products and are selling.”

    The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) on Tuesday warned against panic buying, adding that normalcy would return.

    The National Secretary of IPMAN, James Tor, said: “If there is no product, then we cannot give out anything. But happily, now, there are products, and the federal government is doing much. Yesterday, our national president was explaining to us that the NNPCL has opened up some of their depots so that we can have products supplied and distributed to the public.

    “The President (IPMAN) even called me this morning (April 30, 2024) about the increase in the supply. So, what we are witnessing is just a bridge of what is going on and what is going on.

    “But happily enough, I want to announce to the public that there shouldn’t be any panic buying, because when this thing happens, and people start rushing here and there and trying to accumulate the products, that effect will go a long way to affect everybody.”

    He explained that Nigeria exists in a global system influenced by the crisis in the Middle East between the Israelis and Iran.

    Read Also: Fuel scarcity: Why FG, states should shut schools, by CSOs

    “All these things if we put them together (impacts the Nigerian market),” Tor said, adding “any slightest thing that happens in the world, will affect the supply and distribution of petroleum products”

    However, he expressed confidence in the role of the NNPCL in playing in ensuring energy security for Nigerians.

    Tor said: “Good enough, an NNPC is ready and has opened up some of the depots so that they will start bringing in our product for distribution. I want to assure you that in any moment from now, you will see that the queues will be going down because they have intensified the supply.

    “With what the NNPC is doing, very in a little, few days, you will start seeing the impact of what they are doing because IPMAN is involved.”

  • Fuel scarcity: Why FG, states should shut schools, by CSOs

    Fuel scarcity: Why FG, states should shut schools, by CSOs

    Amid the lingering fuel scarcity in Nigeria, coalition of civil society organizations, has urged federal and state governments to shut down schools to prevent people’s frustration and hardship. 

    The Nation reports on Monday that fuel scarcity frustrated school resumption and business activities in Osun state.

    The CSOs under the aegis of The Osun Masterminds (TOM) on Tuesday, April 30, during their monthly state-of-the-state address programme lamented over the hardship faced by Nigerians with the scarcity of fuel. 

    The coalition through its Executive Secretary, Professor Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, said Nigerians are faced with serious difficulties of fuel, that has quickly crippled the transportation system across the country. 

    Read Also: Fuel scarcity bites harder in FCT as fuel stations increase pump price

    “Nigerians have faced one of the toughest experiences of their lives during this fuel scarcity. Students have had to return home, unable to get to their respective schools due to shortage of public transportation. 

    “The economy is getting crippled by the day as workers and informal sector operators are also unable to get to their places of work. We recommend the shutting down of schools maybe for a few weeks while this scarcity lasts to avoid the children and their parents suffering unduely.

    The group demanded from Federal government to act immediately to solve all the problems pertaining to epileptic power supply and fuel scarcity, to stop the untold hardship that Nigerians are currently going through.“

  • Fuel scarcity: Residents groan over hike in transportation fares in Osun

    Fuel scarcity: Residents groan over hike in transportation fares in Osun

    Residents in Osun are now finding it difficult to cope with the rising cost of transportation due to the increase in fuel prices across filling stations in the state .

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some residents now trek long distances to their various destinations, with few commercial vehicles charging exorbitant fares from passengers as seen on Tuesday in Osogbo.

    Also, most roads in the state capital are empty with few motorists that can afford the high petrol price of between N800 and N1,000 per litre.

    Mini buses in Osogbo now collect between N200 and N400 for drops along major routes, which had further worsened the living conditions of residents in the state capital.

    NAN further reports that the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Osun Council, had called on government to address the worsening fuel scarcity in the state.

    A statement by the Chairman and Secretary of the council, Mr Wasiu Ajadosu and Mr Adeyemi Aboderin, respectively, said that the situation had crippled business activities in the state, as many vehicles and motorcycles had disappeared from the roads, while workers faced serious challenges trekking to their places of work.

    The Union called on Osun Task Force on Petroleum products to move round all filling stations to check allegations of hoarding.

    The Osun government Taskforce on Petroleum Price Monitoring, in its response, warned owners of petrol stations across the state against hoarding the product to create artificial scarcity.

    Mr. Kazeem Akinleye, the Chairman of the Taskforce and Chief of Staff to the State Governor, said that its surveillance across the state revealed that most filling stations were hoarding petrol products, thereby worsening the fuel supply situation in the state.

    Akinleye said that surveillance activities were conducted in major towns and the state capital, which revealed that, there was deliberate hoarding of fuel to create artificial scarcity.

    He warned affected filling stations which were listed as direct culprits to immediately dispense fuel to members of the public.

    Read Also: Fuel scarcity bites harder in FCT as fuel stations increase pump price

    The chairman urged marketers to be public spirited in their pricing of Petroleum products, reminding them of the already harsh economic situation facing members of the public.

    Speaking, a civil servant on his way to Abere where he works, Mr Ayo Adebare, said he was not expecting the sudden increase in transportation fare that had crippled most business activities making lives difficult.

    Adebare said that his children could not join their fellow students in school due to the fare hike.

    He appealed to the necessary authorities to address the situation before things get out of hand.

    Mrs Adenike Adigun, a trader at Alekuwodo area in Osogbo, called on governments across all levels to do the needful by either increasing workers’ salaries to complement the current economic hardship or put measures in place to lessen the hardship.

    (NAN)

  • Fuel scarcity cripples socio-economic activities in Kano

    Fuel scarcity cripples socio-economic activities in Kano

    Petrol scarcity has crippled socio-economic activities in Kano and its environs, with residents wasting many man-hours looking for fuel.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the situation has forced motorists to abandon their routine schedules to search for petrol at filling stations.

    The development is also telling on the city’s socio-economic lives as many of the residents have closed their business premises, while others have suspended their planned visits to friends and relations.

    NAN reports that most of the streets in the metropolis have been deserted while many motorists have abandoned their cars due to fuel scarcity.

    Some residents were forced to trek long distances to reach their various destinations as there are few commercial vehicles on the roads.

    It was also observed that students of secondary and tertiary Institutions have resorted to trekking due to the shortage of commercial vehicles on the roads.

    Read Also: Fuel scarcity bites harder in FCT as fuel stations increase pump price

    Black market Petrol vendors have capitalised on the situation to sell a gallon of fuel at N6,000.

    Alhaji Abubakar Shehu of Dorayi quarters, told NAN that he spent nothing less than 11 hours in a queue at a filling station to buy fuel.

    Shehu decried the situation and called on the Federal Government and other stakeholders to urgently address the problem.

    Isa Musa, a civil servant, told NAN that he had to opt for a ride to go to his office, after spending almost two hours at the bus stop.

    “Public buses became so scarce this morning, and I just ordered a ride to take me to my office at an exorbitant cost.

    “I would have turned back to go home but I have a very important meeting to attend and it was almost time for the meeting,” he said.

    Another civil servant, who gave his name as Rakiya Musa, said “the federal government should declare a state of emergency on the current scarcity of the petroleum products, saying it has crippled socio-economic activities across the country.

    “Transportation fares have gone up within days of this fuel scarcity. How do they want us to survive,” Musa asked.

    Abdulmuni Isa, a commercial vehicle operator, said: “Increasing the transportation fare is the only way out for us transporters because to get fuel these days is not easy.

    “You will notice that most filling stations in Kano are now out of stock, leaving long queues of vehicles stretching into distances in some NNPC stations,” Isa added.

    When contacted, the Chairman of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Kano chapter, Alhaji Gana Girigire, blamed the NNPCL for the petrol scarcity

    “It is not our fault, we have sent over 100 trucks to various centers where we buy this commodity, but it is not available,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • Fuel scarcity bites harder in FCT as fuel stations increase pump price

    Fuel scarcity bites harder in FCT as fuel stations increase pump price

    Filling stations in Abuja and its environs have unofficially increased the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) known as fuel as scarcity of the product bites harder.

    A Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday reports that the fuel stations that had products were selling between N850 and N1,000 per litre, while the black marketers are selling at N1,300 and N1,400 per litre.

    NAN reports that in spite of the adjustment, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) maintained its price of N617.

    Read Also: Fuel scarcity frustrates businesses, school resumption in Osun

    The development has caused long queues at NNPC Ltd. retail outlets at Zone 1, Mega station near Church Gate, Jahi and others along Kubwa express.

    It would be recalled that long queues surfaced in the FCT following low distribution of fuel to different stations due to logistics.

    NNPC Ltd. had said in a statement on Thursday that the cause of the scarcity, which they described as “tightness in fuel supply”, had been resolved.

    However, along Karshi-Jukwoyi road, Fuel Smart, Mobil, NIPCO and many other independent marketers are selling the product in their fuelling stations between N850 and N1,000.

    Conoil and TotalEnergies opposite NNPC Ltd. Towers sell at N660 but with long queues.

    At Kubwa, majority of the fuelling stations are closed because of lack of the product.

    Eterna and Ammasco at the Kubwa second gate, along the Kubwa-Zuba expressway are yet to be supplied with the product.

    Only NIPCO fuelling station opposite the Eterna station has fuel but with long queue. (NAN)

  • Fuel scarcity frustrates businesses, school resumption in Osun

    Fuel scarcity frustrates businesses, school resumption in Osun

    Fuel scarcity on Monday partially paralysed business activities and frustrated the resumption of schools in Osun State. 

    Checks by The Nation showed fuel sold between N800, N850 and N900 per litre. 

    Many petrol stations in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State had fuel but were hoarding it. It was noticed at Oke-Fia, Ogo-Oluwa, Power line, Owode-Ede and other areas of Osogbo tankers were offloading petrol refused to sell. 

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    Many passengers were stranded, forcing school children to return home in the morning. 

    Businesses closed as transportation fare increased by 50% for those going to long-distance within Osogbo, capital of Osun State.