Independent Petroleum Marketers Urge Government Intervention Over NNPC’s Alleged Delay Tactics

Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has called for urgent government intervention over alleged delay tactics employed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) in supplying petroleum products.

In an exclusive interview, Hammed Fashola, the National Vice President of IPMAN, criticized the NNPCL for prolonged delays in product delivery, forcing marketers to seek fuel from private depot owners at higher costs.

Fashola urged the Federal Government to review the current distribution pattern, emphasizing that independent marketers, who own 80% of filling stations in Nigeria, deserve a prioritized allocation of fuel.

He highlighted the financial strain on IPMAN members, who pay for products through the NNPCL portal but often experience extended waiting periods, causing their money to be “trapped” in the NNPCL’s coffers.

The IPMAN official disclosed that the association is communicating with the NNPCL regarding the significant capital trapped in unsettled fuel transactions.

Fashola revealed that some marketers, burdened by loans, are being forced to sell their stations to offset debts, emphasizing the severe challenges faced by operators.

Meanwhile, the NNPCL spokesperson, Femi Soneye, claimed unawareness of any IPMAN funds trapped in the NNPCL account and requested evidence for such allegations.

The dispute underscores the growing tension between independent petroleum marketers and the NNPCL, prompting calls for transparency and government intervention.