Numerous fuel stations in the Federal Capital Territory are presently shuttered, causing extended queues among motorists at the limited outlets dispensing Premium Motor Spirit, commonly known as petrol. Operators in the downstream oil sector have confirmed that this situation stems from the suspension of operations by the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), in line with their previously declared intention to go on strike starting today, Monday.
On Monday morning, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) filling station on Arab Road in Kubwa, Abuja, remained closed. Additionally, the central business district of Abuja witnessed lengthy queues at the NNPCL retail outlet, while numerous other stations operated by independent marketers shut down due to the cessation of petroleum product transportation by NARTO members.
Earlier reported by The PUNCH on Monday, the Federal Government had instructed oil marketers to engage in negotiations with NARTO to prevent the planned suspension of operations by its members involved in the nationwide lifting of petroleum products.
The report detailed that oil marketers and NARTO executives held approximately six meetings over the weekend following the transporters’ announcement to halt operations. The Federal Government, represented by the downstream regulator and the petroleum ministry, is set to convene with NARTO members and other stakeholders today (Monday) in Abuja to address the underlying issues.
Last Friday, The PUNCH warned of a potential fuel scarcity in Nigeria as NARTO pledged to cease the lifting of petroleum products on Monday, citing exorbitant operational costs. NARTO members have consistently expressed concerns about the high diesel prices required to fuel their trucks for the nationwide transportation of petroleum products.
Yusuf Othman, NARTO’s President, emphasized the association’s official announcement that its members would park their trucks from Monday due to operational expenses surpassing their overall earnings. While tanker operators assert that the suspension of operations remains in effect, reports indicate that ongoing discussions between them and the Federal Government are aimed at preventing a nationwide fuel scarcity.
