Petroleum tankers in Lagos State are facing a significant setback as unauthorized individuals, including some wearing uniforms, have barred access to petroleum depots and loading facilities. The situation has resulted in numerous tankers being stranded in the Ijora and Apapa areas of the state, where individuals are enforcing a court order amidst an ongoing feud between prominent Lagos families.
The feud, reportedly involving factions of the Cardoso family, has led to the deployment of hoodlums, allegedly employed through Bolaji Ayorinde, the family’s lawyer, to obstruct trucks from entering depots for petroleum product loading. The hoodlums, some in private security uniforms and others without, have created a blockade, prompting concerns about potential disruptions to the free flow and distribution of products, particularly as the Yuletide season approaches.
Depot operators are appealing for understanding between the feuding parties to ensure uninterrupted product distribution during the festive season in December. Information from the depot operators reveals that they have reported the situation to the Attorney General of the state, asserting that the hoodlums are acting on the instructions of Bolaji Ayorinde, the Cardosos’ lawyer.
In response to the challenges faced by tanker drivers, they have sought the intervention of the Depot and Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMA). The drivers are urging DAPPMA to step in and prevent further disturbances to their operations while the appeal is being heard regarding the disputed judgment used by Bolaji Ayorinde to disrupt the supply of petroleum products in the country.
