The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has shut down seven filling stations in Kogi State for under-dispensing fuel and operating without proper approval.
Why Were These Fuel Stations Shut Down?
According to Kogi State Coordinator of NMDPRA, Ogbe Godwin, some fuel marketers have been caught short-changing customers by dispensing less fuel than what is paid for.
“We are not stopping them from selling at their own price, but cheating the public will not be tolerated. Any marketer caught will face the full wrath of the law,” he said.
During an inspection of 50 fuel stations across the state, seven stations were caught under-dispensing fuel and have been penalised.
List of Affected Fuel Stations
The following stations were sealed for under-dispensing and unauthorised branding:
- Solag Resources Limited, Ankpa
- Hismus Oil and Gas, Obajana
- Riyenic Global Limited, Oke-Ibukun Kabba
- S.O.T Nigeria Limited, Omuo Kabba
- Marktot Oil and Gas, Kabba (for branding violations)
- NIPCO Filling Station, Phase 1, Lokoja
Additionally, four other stations in Ankpa were shut down for operating without licences:
- Absala Oil and Gas
- Yak Ali Oil and Gas
- Yamuda Nigeria Limited
- Hanimat Nigeria Limited
What This Means for Customers
Many Nigerians are already struggling with high fuel prices, and under-dispensing means people pay for more fuel than they actually receive. This fraudulent practice cheats customers and increases the financial burden on drivers and businesses that rely on fuel.
The NMDPRA has warned marketers to register their stations properly and operate within the law or risk facing tougher penalties.
“There won’t be any breathing space for anyone trying to sabotage government efforts in ensuring fair fuel distribution,” Ogbe Godwin warned.
What Happens Next?
The NMDPRA says affected stations will have to pay penalties before they can reopen. The agency also promised to increase monitoring efforts across the state to ensure fuel stations comply with the rules.
For now, Kogi residents can report any fuel station suspected of cheating customers to the authorities, as the fight against exploitation in the oil and gas sector continues.
