Marketers attribute the resurgence of fuel queues in Lagos and Ogun states to supply shortages, a sentiment echoed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), confirming empty depots in Apapa.
The queues, observed on Saturday, prompted concerns of potential scarcity as motorists faced delays in acquiring fuel, impacting traffic flow. Several filling stations, including Oando, Conoil, and TotalEnergies, experienced long queues, exacerbating pressure on stations with available stock. The situation persisted across various locations, affecting commercial vehicle operations and prompting black market sales. Customers voiced frustration over the scarcity’s impact on transport fares, signaling broader economic implications.
Despite assurances from the Major Energies Marketers Association of Nigeria (MEMAN) and Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) of resolving the issue before the Sallah break, challenges persisted.
NNPC spokesperson Olufemi Soneye noted queue presence at NNPC stations, attributing it to price differentials rather than scarcity. MEMAN’s Executive Secretary, Clement Isong, acknowledged low stock during the Easter weekend but assured ongoing efforts to replenish supplies and stabilize the situation. Hammed Fashola of IPMAN expressed optimism for improvements post-holidays, citing ongoing efforts to address supply shortfalls.
Efforts to mitigate the situation include increased fuel loading at depots, with over 400 trucks seen at MRS depot, signaling progress towards resolution. Fashola dismissed rumors of fuel hoarding by marketers due to alleged government price reductions, emphasizing the importance of public awareness to curb panic buying. Despite ongoing challenges, stakeholders remain committed to resolving the issue and stabilizing the fuel supply chain ahead of the upcoming holiday period.
