By Kamsi Anayo
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) on Monday directed its members to Stop loading Petrol from Dangote Refinery over uncertainty around prices of the product at the gantry of the Refinery.
Oyewole Akanni, zonal Chairman of IPMAN, western zone, disclosed the development in Lagos on Monday.
He said the development, propelled by Dangote refinery’s suspension of petrol loading operations at its gantry, has compelled marketers to obtain petrol from private depots at considerably higher prices.
Akanni said uncertainty surrounding petrol prices has caused many marketers to suspend new purchases, resulting in the temporary closure of some filling stations.
“The non-availability of fuel at some filling stations and the closure of others are due to fluctuations in the price of lifting fuel from depots.
“Since Dangote Refinery stopped selling PMS about four days ago, private depot owners have increased their prices.
“Many filling stations that have exhausted their stock are waiting to see whether prices will come down when Dangote refinery resumes sales or increase further, ” he said.
The IPMAN official said only a limited number of marketers are currently purchasing petrol due to the prevailing uncertainty.
He, however, insisted that there is no fuel shortage and urged motorists and other consumers to avoid panic buying.
“There is no fuel scarcity, members of the public should not panic,” Akanni said.
“Although there is a possibility of an increase in pump price, if the current situation persists,” he said.
