Long queues have returned to petrol stations in Ibadan, Oyo State, as a scarcity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) has gripped the city. The price of petrol has skyrocketed to between N950 and N1,200 per litre at independent marketers’ stations, while major marketers like NNPC and BOVAS are selling at N580 and N670, respectively.
The scarcity, which began last week, worsened on Monday, with many filling stations shut down. Commuters were stranded, and transportation costs rose, with fares increasing by N100 in some areas. For example, the fare from Akobo to Gate increased from N300 to N400, while Akobo to Bodija rose from N300 to N400, and Ashi Junction to Bodija increased from N200 to N300.
Residents expressed frustration with the situation, with one civil servant, Mr. Adekunle, describing it as “worrisome” and saying, “We are tired of this mess.” The scarcity and price hike have caused inconvenience and hardship for commuters and motorists in the city.
