NNPCL and Independent Marketers Importing Substandard Petrol
Despite assurances to the public, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and independent marketers continue to import substandard Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, into Nigeria. Investigations have revealed that a significant portion of the fuel consumed daily in the country may be of off-specification quality, posing risks to vehicles and the environment.
Large Volume of Dirty Petrol in Circulation
According to a Motor Tanker Vessels Report dated Friday, September 13, 2024, an alarming 261,938 metric tonnes of petrol were imported through key Nigerian ports, including Apapa, Tincan, Lekki, Calabar, Port Harcourt, and Warri. Of this, NNPCL received 134,938 metric tonnes, while independent marketers imported 127,000 metric tonnes. This combined volume, which includes off-specification fuel, accounts for nearly one-quarter of the estimated 50 million litres of daily petrol consumption in Nigeria.
Fuel Imported from Questionable Sources
The report indicates that the imported fuel came from the same sources previously condemned for being off-specification and harmful to automobiles. Despite this, NNPCL and independent marketers continue to bring in these substandard products, exacerbating the problem of fuel quality in the country.
Persistent Fuel Queues and Public Frustration
As Nigeria continues to face months-long fuel shortages, resulting in extended queues at petrol stations, Nigerians are left with little choice but to purchase the substandard fuel. Despite widespread dissatisfaction, NNPCL management has maintained that the situation is under control, even as off-spec petrol remains prevalent in the market.
READ ALSO
Group Alleges NNPCL Plot to Manipulate Dangote PMS Price
Breaking: Fresh Plot to remove Benue Chief Judge, Justice Ikpambese uncovered
We Will Resist Suswam’s Attempt to Sell PDP to Alia – Groups
Industry Insider Confirms the Situation
An anonymous industry source confirmed that both NNPCL and independent marketers are aware that the fuel they are importing is of poor quality. “They have brought into the country the same kind of fuel that was condemned as dirty petrol, but they know people are forced to buy it because the queues and shortage are making people desperate,” the source explained.
Read: Group Raises Alarm Over Plot by NNPCL to Manipulate Dangote PMS Price
The continued importation of substandard petrol by NNPCL and independent marketers raises serious concerns about fuel quality and safety in Nigeria. As the country struggles with fuel shortages and long queues, the persistence of off-spec fuel in the market highlights the need for greater transparency and regulatory enforcement to protect consumers.
