Abuja Fuel Queues Caused by Logistic Challenge -IPMAN

The President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Migandi Garima, has explained that current fuel queues are only in Abuja and not in other parts of the country. He also attributed the sprawling queues at fuel stations to logistics challenges in moving the product from Lagos to Abuja. He urged Nigerians not to panic, adding that fuel products are available. He stated this in an interview with Arise News on Saturday, July 6. He said: “In fact, there is availability of the product, but as of last week, we had a small challenge, but now the challenge is over. “And that is why you have been seeing that in Lagos there is no queue, it’s only in Abuja. That is because of the logistic challenges in terms of transport from Lagos to Abuja. “But I assure the masses that they should not panic because we got an assurance from the executive vice- president downstream, that the product is available, and we independent petroleum marketers will go and launch these products to their various depots. So, the masses should not panic in buying.”

IPMAN Blames NMDPRA For Substandard Petrol In Nigeria

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has placed blame on the Nigerian Midstream and Upstream Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for the sale of substandard petrol at filling stations throughout Nigeria. John Okwocha, the National Vice President of IPMAN, made this assertion during his address at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) in Abuja. He also acknowledged that the lack of local refining capacity contributes to this situation. According to Okwocha, some of the products currently available evaporate easily, unlike the product that the country used to refine. He urged the federal government to ensure that the promise of refinery operation starting in December is fulfilled. He emphasized that only local refining can eliminate the importation of low-quality fuel. “The prayer of this assembly is that the government must look inward to ensure our refineries are operational, thereby creating the opportunity to reduce the high importation of petroleum products, as we are witnessing today,” Okwocha stated. He also pointed out the challenges faced by consumers who find that their fuel seems to vanish rapidly, leaving them puzzled. Okwocha emphasized the need to investigate whether the type of product currently available differs from the original product that consumers were accustomed to. Okwocha explained, “This is because competition has made it convenient for importers to bring in very light and various types of products into the country, and we accept them due to a lack of alternatives.” However, he highlighted the potential benefits of local production, stating, “But if we produce it in this country, we will have a choice. If we produce it in this country, we will select. If we produce it in this country, it will make it even more competitive and cheaper.” In conclusion, Okwocha urged the government to take action by ensuring the proper functioning of refineries, which would ultimately make life easier for the people by providing access to high-quality fuel.

N900m IPMAN Debt: Delay In Payment Due To Bogus Claims, Says Anambra Govt

The Anambra government has met with leadership of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) over debt claims by some marketers who supplied diesel for streetlight generating sets. Mr Tony Collins Nwabunwanne, the state Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, led the government team while Mr Chinedu Anyaso, chairman of IPMAN Enugu Depot Community, led the marketers in company of his executive members and some of the contractors. Speaking to newsmen, Nwabunwanne said the delay in payment was due to discrepancies and bloated bills which some of the contractors submitted. The Commissioner, who described meeting with the marketers as productive, said Anambra government was willing and ready to pay the contractors as soon as the inconsistencies in claims are cleared. He promised to present their plights to the governor in the coming days for his consideration. “We had a fruitful meeting, the marketers agreed that the blame is not entirely on government but that of the contractors, some of whom have made bloated claims. “But we have considered all that, we are making the necessary adjustments and very soon, Mr Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, will issue a directive,” he said. On his part, Anyaso thanked the Commissioner for his prompt response to their plea. Anyaso said IPMAN was satisfied with the outcome of the meeting and was hopeful that Soludo would act swiftly as promised in the interest of marketers and contractors. “I want to thank Gov. Soludo for the prompt response we got after complaining to him about the debt to our members and the effect on their businesses. “The Commissioner explained the issues to us and we understand better, but more importantly, we look forward to the fulfillment of the promises made in the meeting,” he said. IPMAN had complained about the non payment of about N900 million owed contractors and marketers who supplied diesel to the Anambra government for powering streetlight generators.