Yemisi Izuora.
The federal government aware of the grave consequences of the threat issued by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, IPMAN over allegations of malpractice levelled against Depot and Petroleum Products Marketing Association, DAPPMA, has quickly moved to resolve the matter to avert disruption in products distribution especially during the Christmas.
It will be recalled that the IPMAM, Ejigbo Satellite chapter had threatened to withdraw its services across Lagos State and part of Ogun State as from December 11, warning that over 900 filling stations will be shut down, which might lead to fuel crisis during the yuletide festivities.
This IPMAN Executive in a statement jointly signed by its state chairman, Alhaji Alanamu Balogun, the Vice chairman, Pastor Gbenga Ilupeju and the secretary, Prince Kunle Oyenuga, and made available to Oriental News Nigeria said it was set for a showdown with NNPC over irregular fuel supply at Ejigbo satellite depot saying that it took the painful decision because its members had been running their fuel stations at a loss since the past eight months due to NNPC default in the bulk purchase agreement it signed with IPMAN to sell fuel to its members at a cost of N133.28k per litre.
The association in the statement claimed that a litre of fuel (PMS) is being sold to its members by DAPMAN at N141, apart from running costs, bank charges and other expenses which made it impossible for its members to sell a litre of fuel at controlled price of N145, but N146 per litre.
However, reacting to the threat the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) said that appropriate government agencies have been contacted to settle the rift between the two bodies.
The agency also restated its commitment to ensuring copious supply of petroleum products across the country to aid hitch-free movement of motorists during and beyond the Festive Season.
In a statement by the Group General Manager, Group Public Affairs Division, Mr. Ndu Ughamadu, the Corporation clarified that the Ejigbo Satellite Depot was fully stocked and carrying out regular loading services.
The Corporation further explained that the Ejigbo Satellite Depot had consistently dispensed premium motor spirit (petrol) at the approved price of N133.28 per litre contrary to allegations that it was sold at a higher price.
It said there was enough petroleum products in the country to last till the end of the year and that 25 vessels laden with petroleum products were also being expected to berth between now and January 2018 to further boost supplies.
The Corporation, therefore, urged members of the public not to entertain any fear or engage in panic buying of petroleum products as there was enough to keep the country well supplied.