- Under-Dispensing on the Rise: Many filling stations are engaging in under-dispensing of petroleum products by manipulating their pumps, increasing hardship for citizens.
- Price Hike: The current official retail price of petrol is N1,030 per litre, with independent marketers selling between N1,200 and N1,300, depending on location.
- Exploitation: Consumers are experiencing exploitation at filling stations, with some stations adjusting their meters to shortchange buyers.
- Lack of Regulation: The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) lacks presence at filling stations, worsening the situation.
- Consequences: Under-dispensing undermines consumer trust, breaches operational standards, and violates the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
The recent hike in petrol prices has led to increased hardship for Nigerians, who are already struggling with economic challenges. To make matters worse, many filling stations are engaging in under-dispensing of petroleum products, further exploiting consumers.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and fuel marketers have clashed over subsidy removal, with operators pegging petrol at N1,200/litre. This price hike has led to a surge in complaints from consumers regarding dishonest practices among fuel marketers.
Consumers have expressed frustration at the failure of authorities to address the situation, citing the lack of regulation and enforcement by NMDPRA. The Association of Public Policy Analysis has called for close monitoring to prevent under-dispensing and protect consumer interests.
In response to the outcry, NMDPRA has expressed commitment to ensuring transparency and consumer protection in the downstream petroleum sector. However, decisive action is needed to prevent further exploitation and protect Nigerian consumers.
