Fuel prices have skyrocketed in Nigeria, with the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) hiking the cost of fuel to a staggering N2,500 per Liter. This sharp increase has triggered a more than 200 per cent rise in inter- and intra-city transport fares. The hike comes amidst a strike action by IPMAN, which has led to the closure of filling stations across the state.
The shutdown, which began on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, follows a directive from IPMAN’s state chapter. According to IPMAN’s Coordinating Committee Chairman, Comrade Francis Udoyen, and Secretary, Prince Ekom Idemudo, the move protests the continued seizure of petrol-laden trucks by Joint Task Force (JTF) operatives. The trucks have been held for over four months.
IPMAN’s leadership directed members to halt operations until further notice, warning of severe consequences for non-compliance. The dispute centres on the JTF’s confiscation of two trucks of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and 44 drums of petrol, allegedly involved in smuggling activities.
Natural Oil and Gas Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) Chairman, Comrade Sam Osung, condemned IPMAN’s actions as “economic sabotage.” Osung blamed the government for inaction, allowing criminal activities to flourish within the petroleum sector.
Osung argued that IPMAN’s refusal to take the matter to court indicates guilt. “An innocent marketer should have gone to court to prove their innocence,” he stated.
The ongoing conflict has disrupted fuel supplies, with IPMAN hiring Petroleum Tanker Drivers to halt petrol transportation into Akwa Ibom. Despite this, the army has attempted mediation by escorting seized trucks back to owners, requesting proper documentation.
As Akwa Ibom’s fuel crisis deepens, residents urge the state government to intervene. Osung criticised the government’s inaction, recalling his past attempts to address similar issues.
“The government should act as the government,” Osung stressed, urging resolution in the public interest.