The ongoing dispute between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Joint Task Force (JTF) has led to a crippling fuel scarcity in Akwa Ibom. On Tuesday, residents faced an unprecedented spike in petrol prices, with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) selling for N2,500 per litre. This conflict, which has dragged on for months, continues to leave the state’s economy in disarray.
NUPENG-JTF Faceoff Escalates Fuel Crisis
The faceoff between NUPENG and JTF began when the Joint Task Force impounded PMS-loaded trucks from members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN). The JTF accused the marketers of smuggling fuel, a claim that has caused heightened tensions. As a result, IPMAN has halted fuel distribution in protest, exacerbating the shortage and driving up fuel prices.
Filling Stations Shut Down Amidst Dispute
Reports indicate that most filling stations in Akwa Ibom, particularly in Uyo and surrounding areas, have ceased operations. This is in compliance with IPMAN’s directive to withdraw services, following the JTF’s confiscation of fuel trucks. The scarcity has led to panic buying, with desperate consumers scrambling to secure fuel at exorbitant prices.
Transport Costs Surge by Over 200%
The ripple effect of the fuel scarcity has been felt most severely in transportation, where fares have surged by more than 200%. Many vehicles have been forced off the roads due to a lack of fuel, leaving commuters stranded. This has resulted in a sharp increase in the cost of essential goods, further straining the already burdened populace.
IPMAN Criticises Prolonged Detainment of Fuel Trucks
IPMAN members have expressed their frustration over the prolonged detention of their fuel trucks by the JTF, claiming that the trucks have been held for over four months without resolution. In response, they have taken drastic steps, including shutting down fuel stations and supporting NUPENG’s blockade of petroleum tankers into the state.
Calls for Legal Action and Government Intervention
Sam Osung, Chairman of the Natural Oil and Gas Association of Nigeria (NOGASA), has criticised both NUPENG and IPMAN for not pursuing legal action. He accused the organisations of holding the state’s residents hostage. Osung also called out the Akwa Ibom state government for its lack of intervention in the crisis, urging authorities to resolve the issue before it worsens.
Dire Situation Persists for Akwa Ibom Residents
Despite being one of Nigeria’s oil-producing states, Akwa Ibom remains in a dire situation, with no immediate resolution in sight. The continued faceoff between NUPENG, IPMAN, and the JTF has left residents struggling to access fuel, skyrocketing prices, and limited transportation options. The state government is being urged to intervene to prevent further hardship.
Follow us on Socials:
Facebook
Twitter