Hunger Protests Cause Nationwide Fuel Supply Disruptions, Worsen Queues

In recent days, fuel queues have resurfaced across many states in Nigeria due to a halt in petroleum product supply, attributed to the ongoing nationwide hunger protests.

Two weeks ago, queues had appeared at filling stations, initially blamed on issues with vessel discharge operations, according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). However, since the commencement of hunger protests on August 1, 2024, disruptions have worsened, exacerbating the situation.

Chief Chinedu Ukadike, National Public Relations Officer of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), revealed that marketers were advised to close their stations to protect their assets amid the protests. Consequently, many tankers did not load products during the initial days of the demonstrations, further straining the supply chain.

Ukadike noted that despite appeals from IPMAN President Abubakar Maigandi for normal operations and protection from security agencies, many filling stations remained closed due to security concerns. As a result, fuel scarcity has intensified.

In Lagos, depot operations were halted due to fears of violence, despite support from the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). The lack of loading led to fuel shortages, affecting availability in various regions.

The situation has led to significant fuel shortages across states, with prices varying widely. In Warri, Delta State, fuel prices surged to between N850 and N1,000 per litre, while in Asaba, prices reached N1,000 per litre. Port Harcourt saw prices between N850 and N870 per litre, and Akwa Ibom recorded prices from N870 to N890 per litre.

Enugu experienced prices between N780 and N890 per litre, with black market rates hitting N1,000 per litre. In Kaduna, many stations remained closed, with operational ones selling at N860 per litre, and black market prices soaring to N1,000 per litre. Gombe reported black market prices of N1,200 per litre.

IPMAN officials expressed hope that the situation will improve as protests subside and supply chains are restored. They urged protesters to cease demonstrations to allow the President to address their demands effectively.