Abubakar Garima, the National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) says the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) owes petroleum marketers nearly N15 billion.
Garima disclosed this on Thursday during an appearance on Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily.
He explained that since the NNPCL increased its pump price, marketers have been unable to load a single truck. When asked about the amount owed, Garima responded, “Roughly, it is almost getting to N15billion. Our money is already with the NNPCL. It has refused to give us the product we paid for and is asking us to complete the difference.
“Our money has been with the NNPCL for almost three months now. Either they sell for us at the same rate they are getting the product from Dangote Refinery or refund us so we can buy directly from Dangote Refinery.”
Despite the NNPCL’s commencement of loading Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery one week ago, most filling stations nationwide are yet to receive the product.
In its October 1, 2024, independence message, IPMAN urged the Federal Government to allow its members to source petroleum products directly to ease pressure in the sector.