The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, says that the creeping fuel scarcity that has hit Abuja and other parts of northern states in the last two days was due to a flooded road that is linking Abuja to Lokoja, Kogi state. It was learned that the greater part of Lokoja, the capital of Kogi state has been overrun by flood which has made vehicular movement difficult.
NMDPRA said the development has greatly affected the distribution of petroleum products into the Abuja FCT and other parts of the Northern states as Lokoja road has remained the main artery road that links the north to the southern part of the country.
In the meantime, the agency is working towards re-routing the fuel trucks through an alternative route into Abuja and the remaining part of the north.
A statement released by NMDPRA partly reads; “The Authority assured the public that there are sufficient petroleum products inland.
NMDPRA, therefore, advised the general public to panic buying as the agency has enough inland fuel which it is working to normalize transportation through other alternative roads to ensure the product is available in all parts of the country.
The statement further stated that “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 commitment to Nigerians to ensure seamless supply and distribution of petroleum products nationwide.”
