Residents of the Federal Capital Territory are struggling with fuel shortages following the sudden closure of several Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited retail outlets in Abuja. The closures, reportedly ordered by the national oil firm’s management, are expected to continue until next week.
The shutdown has caused long queues at the few operational stations, forcing many motorists and commuters to endure hours of delays. During visits to NNPC stations in Lugbe, Airport Road, Zone 3, Lifecamp, and Kubwa on Wednesday, attendants were seen sitting idle as motorists were turned away.
An attendant at an NNPC station in Garki, who requested anonymity, stated that they had been without fuel for two days due to a lack of supply. Another attendant in Kubwa confirmed that they had exhausted their old stock and were awaiting fresh deliveries. Meanwhile, a station manager at the NNPC Life Camp station attributed the closures to internal management adjustments but assured that fuel would be available soon.
A source within the NNPCL confirmed that the shutdowns were caused by logistical challenges despite adequate fuel supply at depots. Efforts to obtain an official response from NNPCL spokesperson Femi Soneye were unsuccessful.
Frustrated residents have been forced to purchase fuel from independent marketers at higher prices. A driver lamented the situation, stating that he had no choice but to buy from independent stations, which charge significantly more than NNPCL outlets.
Join Our Telegram Channel For Instant Notification
