The Ekiti State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), led by Chairman Kayode Babatuyi, has strongly denounced the escalating fuel scarcity in the state, citing its adverse effects on economic and social activities.
In a statement issued following its monthly congress over the weekend, the NUJ explained that a handful of petrol stations were stockpiling fuel with intentions to sell at inflated prices in the future. It urged the state government to intervene promptly to alleviate the plight of the suffering residents.
The statement was formulated by a three-member committee comprising Comrade Yemisi Omotola (Chairman), Comrade Oyeniyi Kolajo, and Comrade Anthony Ojo (Members), and was endorsed by the state secretary, O’Seun Ogunsakin.
The communique reads, ”The Congress called on the State Government, particularly the Petroleum Task Force, to urgently intervene in the increasing return of queues and the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at highly exorbitant rates at different filling stations in the state especially in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital.
”The Congress noted that the queues were as a result of fuel hoarding by some filling stations.
”The Congress advised the government to investigate the cause of the scarcity and the queues, with a view to punishing those engaging in sharp practices at the detriment of the citizens.”
The scarcity of premium motor spirit, also known as petrol, across major towns and cities in the state has made life unbearable to residents.
Most of the fuel stations in the state, especially the state capital were under lock and key, worsening the situation for most motorists.
Our correspondent gathered that only a handful of filling stations are dispensing the product at higher prices between N750 and N900 per litre with long queues.
This development has crippled business and commercial activities in the state as many taxi drivers and motorcyclists have disappeared from the roads while the few ones operating are charging exorbitant prices for trips and drops.
