On the 25th of April, fuel scarcity hits some states in Nigeria and petroleum stations were closed as a result.hi
The affected states includes Abuja, Niger, Gombe, Anambra, Sokoto, Osun and Nasarawa.
The fuel scarcity started on Wednesday but grew intensely on Thursday.
Some fuel stations in Abuja and other 5 states inclusive were closed due to the shortage of Premium Motor Spirit, generally known as petrol.
Several individuals were left stranded at bus stops as transporters could not get petrol (PMS) to fuel their vehicles for transportation.
With insufficient vehicles to convey passengers, other transporters increased transportation fees in affected states.
The reason for the fuel scarcity was due to the shortage in the supply of petrol (PMS) to the capital states and other states in the nation.
However, the oil marketers stated that they would plan a meeting with the management of the retail subsidiary of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.
In an interview held by Punch News correspondent to the National President, IPMAN, Abubakar Maigandi, he gave reassurance on the news of fuel scarcity that it will all become of the past as soon as Dangote Refinery comes on board and starts supplying PMS to local market.
Another interviewee, Chief John Kekeocha, the National Secretary of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) stated, “It is obvious that there is supply shortage in Abuja and other states that are close to the FCT (Federal Capital Territory),”
This is the reason why many filling stations in these areas are not selling PMS, which, of course, has led to the serious queues you see in the few ones that are dispensing the product. I cannot tell you the reason for this supply shortage now.
But we are meeting with NNPC Regal and this is going to form part of our discussions. The matter is being looked into right now, and we hope to find a solution to it during the meeting.”
On the other notes from IPMAN President, Maigandi stated not to know the time the Dangote Refinery will commence operation.
“ But since he said he would start it, I know he will do that.” This response was given after Punch News correspondent asked whether the refinery had briefed marketers about when it would start pumping out the product.