As of today, July 30, 2024, the fuel scarcity in Nigeria has reached critical levels, particularly affecting major cities like Abuja and Lagos.
Motorists are facing long queues at filling stations, with many locations running completely dry.
Reports indicate that petrol prices have soared to N1,500 per litre in some areas, prompting widespread frustration among citizens.
Clement Isong, the Executive Secretary of the Major Energy Marketers’ Association of Nigeria (MEMAN), stated: “The recent rainfall across the country, especially in Lagos, made it difficult for trucks to lift products”.
There was a thunderstorm at the depots, and the supply chain is slower when there is a thunderstorm.
A 24-hour supply chain disruption means that the stations are dry. During the rainy season, the trucks drive more slowly; they also get stuck when the roads are flooded.
However, I assure you that the queues will disappear in a few days. There is product in Lagos, and the product is coming and moving.
We advise Nigerians not to engage in panic buying or stockpiling of fuel, as this creates artificial scarcity and poses safety risks.”
Motorists like Ibrahim Bako have voiced their concerns, urging the government to take swift action to alleviate the situation.
Despite assurances from MEMAN that supplies are on the way and the situation may improve soon, the public remains anxious as the crisis continues to disrupt daily life and economic activities across the nation.