The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has issued a warning, threatening to shut down all petroleum filling stations across Adamawa and Taraba States.
This drastic measure comes in response to what the labour organ describes as the molestation of its members by officers of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS).
At a press conference, IPMAN Chairman for Adamawa and Taraba States, Alh. Dahiru Buba, voiced the association’s frustrations. He accused the NCS Anti-Smuggling Unit, known as Operation Whirlwind, of abandoning their designated border operations to target legitimate businesses within metropolitan and local government areas. This, he claims, has resulted in financial losses, artificial scarcity, and increased prices of petroleum products.
Buba detailed incidents where four PMS (Premium Motor Spirit) trucks belonging to IPMAN were initially seized. Despite a written appeal to the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) and the eventual return of the trucks with an apology, the harassment continued. Recently, six more trucks were apprehended by Operation Whirlwind, prompting another appeal to the CGC, which has so far gone unanswered. Buba also mentioned other illegal seizures at privately owned filling stations.
In a bid to seek resolution, Buba called on National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, and Governor Kefas Agbo of Taraba State to intervene. He warned that if their concerns are not addressed by June 25, 2024, all petroleum product stakeholders would initiate an industrial action.
IPMAN emphasized that the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB) signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu deregulates petroleum products, arguing that government interference in monitoring or sales is unwarranted. The association is adamant that the Customs Service must cease its disruptive actions to prevent further escalation.
SOURCE: swifteradio.com
