The oil marketers have exclusively confirmed to Platforms Africa that unspecified volume of off-spec Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol was imported into Nigeria.
National Operations Controller of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Mike Osatuyi, who disclosed this in an exclusive interview with Platforms Africa, maintained that this off-spec product is being mopped-up and this effort has caused dislocation in the supply chain.
Platforms Africa, known for its leadership in breaking news and investigative journalism, broke the news of fuel queues on Sunday, over 24 hours before other media began to feast on it.
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“NNPC is the major importer of petrol and for many years it has been managing that monopoly well. It will import and feed the marketers who, in return, feed Nigerians. As we speak, however, there is an off spec fuel in ciculation. This product is being mopped-up and this effort has caused dislocation in supply. That is why you will see some stations without PMS while a few with the product have long queues,” Osatuyi said.
“Lagos is pecualiar because the volume consumed in Lagos is huge and any slight hitch in supply can be noticed almost immediately.
“The NNPC is now doing its best at this critical time and we believe the effort will yield desired outcome soon.
“My message to Nigerians is that we should show understanding at this moment by not panic buying. Marketers with supply presently also have the responsibility of not hoarding the product.
“The situation should be remedied in the next days if everything goes as planned.”
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Spokesman for the NNPC, Garba Deen Muhammad, could not be reached for comment on the allegation of adulterated product in circulation and how this is linked to queues being experienced in Lagos and parts of Ogun state.
He has however issued a statement earlier in which he advised Nigerians against panic buying.
“The NNPC Ltd. wishes to assure the public that the Company has sufficient PMS stock to meet the needs of Nigerians.
“The public is therefore, advised not to engage in panic buying of petrol; and to ignore all rumours that may suggest otherwise.
In line with the existing laws of the land, NNPC Ltd. is deeply committed to ensuring energy security for the country,” the statement read.
However, queues for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol, which on Sunday, resurfaced at filling stations in parts of Lagos and Ogun states have spread to other parts of the states.
More marketers now shut gates against motorists blaming lack of suppĺy for their action.
Long queues for fuel, which were noticed in Ajah, Lekki, and Victoria Island on Sunday have now spread to Ojota, Ikorodu, Ketu Alapere, among others, Platforms Africa reports.
