By Gold Ogine, JKNewsMedia Reporter
THE OGUN State government has clarified the purpose of its Task Force on petroleum regulation, emphasizing that its primary goal is to address unethical practices among independent petroleum marketers.
This follows allegations of intimidation and harassment leveled against the Task Force by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).
Engr. Olugbenga Dairo, the State Commissioner for Transportation, in a statement on November 13, dismissed the claims as unfounded.
He explained that the government established the Task Force in response to escalating transportation costs and widespread public complaints about sharp practices in fuel pricing.
The commissioner revealed that during inspections, the Task Force discovered significant irregularities at several filling stations, including tampering with fuel dispensers to defraud customers in places such as:
• Bugatee Filling Station, Idi-Aba: A 0.71-litre shortfall per 10 litres purchased, costing customers about ₦700 per transaction.
• MRS Filling Station, Afariogun Close, Ilaro: A 0.74-litre shortfall per 10 litres.
• AWO Filling Station, Aiyetoro Yewa: A 0.62-litre shortfall per 10 litres.
• MRS Filling Station, Ijebu Ode: A 1-litre shortfall per 10 litres.
• MosBolarinde Concept Sotubo, Ogijo, and Petrocam Gas and Fuel Station, Lusada: Both recorded a 0.4-litre shortfall per 10 litres.
These discrepancies, the state notes, translate to significant financial losses for consumers, prompting the government to intensify efforts to ensure compliance with fair practices.
Urge for Cooperation with State Government
Engr. Dairo urged IPMAN to cooperate with the state government, stressing the importance of balancing consumer protection with the operational freedoms of marketers.
He described the allegations of contravening the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) as a misinterpretation of the government’s intent to uphold public interest.
“The government’s primary duty is to serve the public interest by ensuring fair pricing for fuel and combating unethical practices that can lead to inflationary pressures,” he stated.
The commissioner also advocated for open dialogue between IPMAN and the state government to resolve disagreements amicably.
He criticized IPMAN’s decision to threaten a withdrawal of services, warning that such actions could disrupt fuel supply and adversely impact residents of Ogun State.
“Rather than threatening the stoppage of fuel supplies, a collaborative approach would be more beneficial for all parties involved,” Dairo advised.
Reassuring residents, the commissioner reiterated the government’s zero tolerance for fuel pump manipulation and undue transportation price hikes.
He called on all stakeholders to prioritize public welfare and seek constructive solutions to the issues at hand affirming that the Ogun State government remains committed to protecting consumers and fostering a fair and transparent petroleum market while ensuring marketers’ rights are respected.
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