Fuel Scarcity Grips Ilorin: Commuters Stranded in Long Queues ** IPMAN Chairman Reacts

By Omowumi Omotosho

In what has become a recurrent nightmare for commuters and motorists, the city of Ilorin, capital of Kwara State, finds itself grappling with a severe fuel scarcity this week. Long queues snake through the streets as frustrated commuters wait in line, hoping to fill their tanks amidst locked gates at many fueling stations across the city.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) has attributed the fuel scarcity in certain regions, including Ilorin, to logistical challenges. However, they reassured the public that these issues have been resolved.

IPMAM Boss, Kamaja

Responding to the crisis, Alhaji Abdullateef Abdulrauf Kamaja, Chairman of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) Ilorin chapter, shed light on the situation. He emphasized that the scarcity is not isolated to Ilorin but is widespread across Nigeria, excluding some parts of Lagos due to its proximity to major depots.

Kamaja clarified that the scarcity is not caused by hoarding but rather by cautious behavior of trying not to run into debt. He highlighted the anticipation of petrol supply from the Dangote Refinery, expected around the second or third week of May, as a factor contributing to the current predicament as many Marketers are not demanding for much petrol due to possibility of price reduction when Dangote Refinery begins petrol supply to depots.

“We are not hoarding fuel. The main issue is that as we expect the petrol from Dangote Refinery, the marketers (both depot owners and fueling stations) are trying to place safe not to run into debt,” Kamaja explained.

Assuring the public that the situation is temporary, Kamaja appealed for understanding and patience. He urged citizens to bear with the industry as efforts are made to navigate through the challenges and ensure a steady fuel supply.

At the time of filing this report, the situation remains dire, with numerous fueling stations along key arteries such as Taiwo, Asa-dam, and Geri-Alimi locked up tight. Meanwhile, motorists and citizens alike are left to contend with lengthy queues at the few stations that have bravely thrown open their gates for sales. The scene paints a stark picture of the challenges faced by the city’s residents in their daily quest for fuel.