The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has addressed the recent petrol supply disruption in Lagos, attributing it to an issue at one of the depots in the area. In a statement by NNPC spokesman Olufemi Soneye, the company assured the public that the problem has been rectified, and normalcy in supply will be restored effective immediately.
Motorists were urged to refrain from panic buying to prevent exacerbating the supply challenge. NNPC emphasized its commitment to maintaining sufficiency in petroleum product supply and called for cooperation from residents.
Meanwhile, petroleum marketers attributed the shortage to NNPC’s inability to supply the required volume of petrol since they rely on the company as the sole importer. Despite assurances from NNPC, filling stations, including those owned by NNPC and major marketers, experienced shortages and long queues.
Some marketers speculated that the issue stemmed from NNPC’s failure to settle subsidy backlog owed to oil traders since November and December of the previous year. However, others indicated that the subsidy regime was not beneficial to the country.
Marketers expressed hope for improved supply once NNPC makes more products available. They called on NNPC to sustain supply to meet demand and alleviate the queues at filling stations.
The situation underscores the importance of uninterrupted petrol supply and the need for effective coordination between NNPC and private depot owners to ensure steady supply across the country.