A severe fuel scarcity has hit Nigeria, causing prices to skyrocket to N1,400 per litre, following a protest by filling stations against an anti-smuggling operation in the northeastern region. The operation, tagged "Operation Whirlwind," was launched by the Nigeria Customs Service to curb fuel smuggling into neighboring countries.
In response to the operation, over 1,800 filling stations were closed, leaving motorists stranded and forced to rely on black market traders, who are taking advantage of the situation to sell fuel at exorbitant prices. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has accused the Customs Service of targeting specific owners and singling out their members for harassment.
According to Dahiru Buba, Chairman of IPMAN, the association had written to the Customs Service to express their grievances but had received no response. "We wrote to them, but there was no response. That's why we decided to go on strike," he said. Buba added that over 1,800 outlets had ceased to operate, affecting fuel supply in the region.
The scarcity has led to long queues at filling stations, with motorists waiting for hours to buy fuel. Black market traders have capitalized on the situation, selling fuel at N1,400 per litre, up from the official price of N650–N750. The situation has caused hardship for many Nigerians, who rely on fuel for their daily activities.
The fuel scarcity has also led to an increase in transportation costs, as drivers are forced to pay higher prices for fuel. This has led to a rise in the cost of goods and services, affecting many businesses and households. The situation has also led to a rise in the cost of food items, as farmers and transporters struggle to access fuel for their operations.
The Nigerian government has yet to respond to the situation, but IPMAN has called on the government to intervene and resolve the crisis. The association has also called on the Customs Service to review its operation and ensure that it does not harm legitimate businesses.
In the meantime, Nigerians are bearing the brunt of the fuel scarcity, with many calling on the government to take urgent action to address the situation. The fuel scarcity has highlighted the need for Nigeria to address its fuel supply challenges and ensure that fuel is available and affordable for all Nigerians.
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