NMDPRA seals filling station in Taraba for ‘diverting’ 18 trucks of petrol

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) says it has sealed Batoson Oil and Gas Ltd in Taraba state.

NMDPRA, in a statement on Thursday, said the fuel station was sealed for the diversion of 18 trucks of premium motor spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, between April 4 and May 5.

“Batoson oil and gas Ltd Mararaba Baissa Kurmi LGA, Taraba State. Station was sealed for diversion of 18 trucks of PMS between 04/04/24 and 05/05/24,” the regulator said. 

The development comes amid a supply shortfall of petrol which has resulted in queues spreading at fuel stations across the country.

Amid the situation, some retail fuel outlets have been accused of hoarding the products. 

On April 30, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited said some individuals are taking advantage of the situation.

“Unfortunately, we experienced a three-day disruption in distribution due to logistical issues, which has since been resolved,” NNPC said. 

“However, as you know, overcoming such disruptions typically requires double the amount of time to return to normal operations.

“Some folks are taking advantage of this situation to maximize profits.

“Thankfully, product scarcity has been minimal lately, but these folks might be exploiting the situation for unwarranted gain.”

On May 7, NNPC said queues for petrol have “thinned out” across the country.