The resurgence of petrol scarcity in Nigeria has prompted oil marketers to voice their concerns over the lack of clarity regarding the logistics challenges cited by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). Despite assurances from NNPCL's spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, regarding the resolution of these challenges, oil marketers remain skeptical and uninformed about the nature of the issues affecting supply nationwide.

The scarcity, which has intensified in recent days, has resulted in soaring prices and long queues at filling stations across the country. In Lagos, petrol prices have skyrocketed to as high as ₦800 per litre at IPMAN-owned stations and ₦1,200 per litre on the black market. Even before the scarcity, prices were already elevated, with some stations charging up to ₦900 per litre in various locations.

Oil marketers, including members of IPMAN and MEMAN, have refuted claims of hoarding and emphasized their willingness to sell products if supplied by NNPCL. Akin Akinrinade, Chairman of IPMAN Satellite Depot, Lagos, underscored the need for transparency and cooperation between stakeholders to address the crisis effectively.

Tunji Oyebanji, CEO of 11 Plc and former chairman of MOMAN, criticized NNPCL for allegedly withholding adequate supplies, exacerbating the scarcity. He highlighted the discrepancy between the landing cost of petrol and the selling price set by NNPCL, which has made it economically unfeasible for marketers to operate.

The situation has been compounded by unconfirmed speculations of an imminent price increase for petrol, leading to panic buying and excessive hoarding. Amidst these challenges, IPMAN has threatened to withdraw services over non-payment of ₦200 billion bridging claims owed by NMDPRA, further complicating the issue.

Chinedu Ukadike, the PRO of IPMAN, acknowledged the difficulties in sourcing petroleum products due to refinery maintenance in Europe but expressed optimism about improvements in the supply chain with the arrival of NNPCL vessels.

As the nation grapples with the ramifications of the petrol scarcity, stakeholders are calling for urgent action to address the underlying issues and restore normalcy to the fuel supply chain. The need for collaboration between government agencies, regulatory bodies, and oil marketers has never been more critical to mitigate the impact on consumers and businesses alike.