In response to the recent closure of filling stations and the resurgence of street hawking of fuel in Cross River State, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed its operatives to various depots and fuel stations to ensure the fair distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to the public. This move aims to alleviate the hardships faced by the population due to the unavailability of fuel.
Samuel Fadeyi, the State Commandant of NSCDC, confirmed this development in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday. He expressed concern over the acts of hoarding and black market sales by petroleum product dealers, emphasizing that such practices are not acceptable.
The closure of several filling stations and the subsequent return of fuel hawking followed the president’s recent statement announcing the removal of fuel subsidies. The abruptness of this announcement led to a scarcity of fuel in the state, leaving many commuters stranded and unable to find transportation to their desired destinations.
Commandant Fadeyi reassured the public that the NSCDC is taking proactive measures to combat hoarding and illegal activities related to the sale of fuel. He stated, “I have dispatched my personnel to depots and fuel stations to ensure that the available stock is promptly sold to the people. The creation of artificial scarcity through hoarding and black market activities will not be tolerated.”
Regarding the removal of fuel subsidies, Fadeyi reminded the public that the government had previously announced plans to commence the process in June 2023. He further explained that the federal government is working on implementing palliative measures to mitigate the impact of subsidy removal on the population. He urged Nigerians to exercise patience while the government resolves the pertinent issues.
To curb the black marketing of petroleum products, the NSCDC commandant disclosed that his operatives have been instructed to apprehend anyone engaged in such illegal activities. He also urged the public to report the activities of fuel hawkers to the corps, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in eradicating the illicit practices.
As the NSCDC intensifies its presence at depots and fuel stations, it is expected that the fair distribution of PMS will be restored, ensuring that the public has access to fuel without further inconveniences.
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