Fuel scarcity has hit several states across Nigeria, leading to the closure of many filling stations and causing heavy queues at the few outlets dispensing petrol.
Transport fares skyrocketed in the affected states as the limited number of transporters with access to petrol raised their rates.
Several filling stations, including NNPC outlets, were closed in Zuba, Niger State, and other areas due to the unavailability of petrol.
In Nyanya, Nasarawa State, many filling stations also shut their doors, exacerbating the scarcity and causing long queues at operational outlets.
Oil marketers acknowledged the supply shortage and indicated that investigations were underway to determine the cause. They expressed optimism that the issue would be addressed during the meeting with NNPC officials.
“It is obvious that there is supply shortage in Abuja and other states that are close to the FCT (Federal Capital Territory),” the National Secretary of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chief John Kekeocha, told Punch.
The situation in Anambra State was particularly dire, with thousands of commuters left stranded at motor parks due to the unavailability of vehicles caused by the closure of petrol stations. This led to a surge in transportation fares, with some routes experiencing fare hikes of over 200%.
Residents in Lagos and Ogun states also faced challenges as filling stations experienced long queues, and petrol prices varied widely.