The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has blamed the current scarcity of fuel in Abuja on the “unprecedented flooding” that has halted vehicular movements in Lokoja, Kogi State.
In a press release, the Authority said, even though the unfortunate incident has affected the free flow of petroleum products, measures such as trucking through alternative routes, are being taken to cushion the effects of the scarcity.
The statement reads:
“The Authority wishes to state that the fuel queues are caused by unprecedented flooding in Lokoja, Kogi state, which has submerged a greater part of the city and grounded vehicular movements. This unfortunately has affected the distribution of Petroleum products to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and environs.
“As part of measures to mitigate the situation, trucking via alternative routes is currently ongoing. The Authority assures the public that there are sufficient Petroleum Products inland.”
The NMDPRA further reiterated its commitment to ensuring smooth supply of Petroleum products across the country and called on the general public to avoid panic buying as the Authority as well as stakeholders and government agencies are working diligently to ensure petroleum products availability.
“Consequently the general public is advised to avoid panic buying at fuel stations as the NMDPRA is working assiduously with relevant stakeholders and government agencies to ensure products availability across the country. In the same context marketers are advised to desist from hoarding the product so as not to inflict hardship on Nigerians.
“The Authority wishes to reiterate its commitments to Nigerians to ensure seamless supply and distribution of Petroleum products.” It stated.
