By Onilede Titi Faith
Gboyega Nasir Isiaka, a member of the House of Representatives representing Yewa South/Ipokia Federal Constituency of Ogun State, has defended the continued ban on fuel sales in Nigeria’s border communities, stressing that the policy is crucial in curbing cross-border fuel smuggling.
Speaking to journalists, Isiaka explained that the affected areas, due to their proximity to neighboring countries, have become major routes for the illegal diversion of subsidized petroleum products.
This, he said, results in significant revenue losses for the government and exacerbates fuel scarcity for citizens within the country.
“Though the policy has brought inconvenience to our people, it is a tough but necessary step to safeguard national economic interests,” he noted.
Isiaka acknowledged the hardship the ban has caused in his constituency and assured that he is engaging relevant authorities to explore measures that would ease the burden on law-abiding residents.
He also urged the Federal Government to fast-track infrastructure development and diversify economic opportunities in border communities to reduce their dependence on fuel-related trade.
The fuel sale restriction, introduced to stem widespread smuggling, has faced widespread criticism.
Nonetheless, government officials and lawmakers maintain that it is an essential tool in the fight against economic sabotage.
