Roadside sellers hike petrol price in Adamawa as IPMAN’s feud with customs lingers
Roadside sellers of fuel have unfairly increased prices following the continuous closure of petrol stations in Adamawa State by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).
The shutting down of all the petrol stations followed a protest by IPMAN against members of Operation Whirlwind from the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) for unlawful harassment and seizure of goods.
According to survey on Tuesday, the cost of four liters of petrol rose to N5000 while twenty-five liters were being sold at N35,000.
The closure has motivated the illicit sellers to spread throughout the major streets of the state capital, Yola.
It was reported that due to the actions of IPMAN, all petrol stations were forcefully closed, providing a favourable environment for the roadside sellers to conduct their business, leaving commuters stranded.
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As a result of the fuel shortage affecting transportation services, the few tricycle (Keke Napep) riders increased their fares by up to 200 percent, making transportation expensive for low income earners, especially civil servants.
The Secretary of IPMAN in Adamawa State, Comrade Abdulmaliki Bello, has consistently accused customs officers of Operation Whirlwind of conducting unlawful activities, such as harassing and seizing their members, as well as illegally confiscating tankers and petroleum products, resulting in significant financial losses.
IPMAN issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Nigerian Customs Service, demanding adherence to legal procedures to avoid further disruptions in the petroleum supply chain.
Bello assured the citizens of the state that the situation would improve soon due to the intervention of the state Deputy Governor and other stakeholders.
He mentioned that all petrol stations would reopen soon, without specifying a specific time and date.
However, the actions of IPMAN have been criticised by many who suggested that the association should focus on preventing the illegal diversion of petroleum products instead of shutting down essential services.
Meanwhile, it was gathered that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is collaborating with the state government to ensure that normalcy is restored to the sector soon.
Speaking anonymously, a customs official denied all allegations against the Service, stating that the accusations are unfounded.
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