The House of Representatives has directed the Federal Government to remove the prohibition on fuel sales in border communities, subsequent to the elimination of fuel subsidies.
This decision was made following the approval of a motion presented by Rep. Adegboyega Isiaka (APC-Ogun) during the session held in Abuja on Tuesday.
Isiaka, while presenting the motion, highlighted that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) had implemented a ban in November 2019 on the sale and distribution of petrol within 20 kilometers of the Nigerian border. This ban was enacted to prevent the smuggling of subsidized petroleum products to neighboring countries.
However, Isiaka argued that since the government had discontinued the subsidy on petrol, the ban was no longer necessary. He called for an immediate lifting of the ban, as it had caused significant hardship for millions of Nigerians residing in and conducting businesses within the affected areas.
Isiaka further emphasized that these communities were situated in 15 different states, and residents were compelled to travel long distances or pay additional charges to procure essential fuel for their daily needs. The ban negatively impacted socio-economic activities in these affected regions.
In response, the House adopted the motion and urged the NCS and other pertinent government agencies to promptly lift the ban. Additionally, the House mandated the Committee on Customs and Excise, once constituted, to ensure compliance with this directive.
