In recent months, Nigeria has faced severe gridlock caused by fuel shortages and rising petrol prices. This has been attributed to the nation’s dependence on imported refined fuel, leading to frequent supply disruptions and price fluctuations. These issues have fuelled the growth of the black market, where petrol is sold outside formal regulatory frameworks.
In an interview with a black-market PMS (Premium Motor Spirit) seller, Bola Blessing, she provided insights into the operations of black-market dealers and how they manage to thrive amidst fuel scarcity. She revealed that there is an organised union for black-market sellers, and before anyone can start such a business, they must go through the union and pay a stipulated fee. Afterward, members are required to pay a weekly levy of ₦500. This levy, according to Bola, is used to purchase fuel which is then given to police officers and other uniformed personnel as a form of “gratitude” to ensure their operations are not disrupted.
“Fuel prices aren’t stable, and it’s affecting our business,” she lamented. “We no longer make as much profit as we used to. Before, we could make ₦3,000 to ₦5,000 after selling 25 litres of petrol, but now we struggle to make ₦2,000 after selling the same quantity.” Bola further disclosed that she buys petrol from Mobil fuel stations at ₦868 per litre and resells it at ₦1,000 per litre, without any formal safety measures in place at her sales point. She urged the government to stabilise petrol prices and reduce the cost to ease the burden on sellers and consumers alike.
On the other hand, Gregory Thursday, another black-market fuel dealer who operates on a larger scale, shared a different perspective. He claimed that full safety measures are in place where he sells, such as preventing smoking and making phone calls around the fuel. “Anyone caught violating these rules is fined,” Gregory stated.
Gregory also confirmed that he belongs to a union of black-market sellers known as “Peace and Unity” and pays a weekly fee of ₦5,000. In emergencies, he contributes ₦10,000 as a “gratitude” to law enforcement to avoid interference in their business. He explained that his petrol supply comes from truck drivers due to the long queues at filling stations and the high official prices.
He echoed Bola’s concerns about price instability, adding that the fluctuating cost of fuel makes his business unpredictable and challenging.
To tackle the issue of black-market fuel sales, many believe the government must address the root causes, such as fuel shortages and price instability. A multi-faceted approach that includes regulating and monitoring the fuel supply chain is necessary to reduce the financial burden on commuters, businesses, and households while curbing illegal sales.
