NMDPRA Cracks Down on Fuel Marketers Selling to Illegal Peddlers: A New Era of Strict Compliance
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has issued a strong and unambiguous warning to fuel marketers and filling stations across the nation, with particular emphasis on those operating within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The directive, which was delivered during a closed-door stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja, calls for an immediate halt to the illegal sale of premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, to unauthorized roadside peddlers. This stern warning is part of a broader strategy by NMDPRA to clamp down on illegal activities within Nigeria’s petroleum sector and enforce strict compliance with regulatory standards.
During the meeting, attended by major retail outlet managers and key stakeholders in the petroleum distribution chain, NMDPRA highlighted the gravity of the situation. The authority underscored its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the fuel distribution network and ensuring that fuel is sold only through legitimate, regulated channels. This move is seen as critical in safeguarding the nation’s petroleum resources and protecting consumers from the dangers associated with illegal fuel sales.
NMDPRA communicated its position through a series of public statements, including a post on X (formerly known as Twitter). The post left no room for ambiguity: “NMDPRA embarks on a war against the illegal sale of petroleum products, especially PMS, in jerrycans. Filling stations are advised to desist from servicing illegal peddlers; failure to do so will result in the suspension of retail licenses.” This declaration marks the beginning of what NMDPRA describes as an “era of zero tolerance” towards non-compliance in the petroleum industry.
The illegal sale of fuel, particularly in jerry cans, has long been a problem in Nigeria. This practice not only violates regulatory standards but also poses significant risks to public safety. Jerry cans are often used by smugglers and unscrupulous individuals to engage in cross-border fuel smuggling and unauthorized reselling, activities that contribute to fuel scarcity and destabilize the market. Moreover, the improper handling of such a volatile and highly flammable product as PMS increases the risk of fire outbreaks, putting lives and properties at significant risk.
Mr. Ogbugo Ukoha, the Executive Director of Distribution Systems, Storage, and Retailing Infrastructure at NMDPRA, spoke at length during the meeting, emphasizing the authority’s resolve to enforce strict compliance. “The authority is taking this decisive step to safeguard the lives and properties of Nigerians,” Ukoha stated. He further explained that NMDPRA would be ramping up its surveillance and monitoring efforts across the country. The authority has made it clear that any marketers found complicit in the illegal sale of fuel to unauthorized peddlers would face severe consequences, including the revocation of their retail licenses.
This crackdown is not just about enforcing regulations; it is also about addressing the broader economic and security challenges posed by the illegal fuel trade. Cross-border smuggling, which is often facilitated by the illegal sale of fuel in jerry cans, has been a persistent issue, leading to significant economic losses and contributing to fuel shortages in the country. By targeting these illegal activities, NMDPRA aims to stabilize the fuel market, ensuring that legitimate consumers have reliable access to petrol at regulated prices.
In line with this commitment, NMDPRA’s executive team, led by Mr. Ukoha and Dr. Mustapha Larmode, in collaboration with security agencies, conducted an extensive surveillance operation around the metropolis. This operation is part of a broader strategy to ensure that all retail activities comply with the highest standards of safety and legality. The surveillance efforts are expected to continue, with NMDPRA promising to leave no stone unturned in its quest to rid the petroleum sector of illegal activities.
NMDPRA’s actions have been widely applauded by industry stakeholders and the public alike. The authority’s firm stance is seen as a necessary step towards restoring order and accountability within the petroleum distribution network. By enforcing these regulations, NMDPRA aims to create a safer environment for all Nigerians, protect the nation’s petroleum resources, and ensure that the benefits of these resources are fully realized by the legitimate consumers.
This directive is a clear message to all fuel marketers and filling station operators: the era of turning a blind eye to illegal activities is over. NMDPRA is fully committed to ensuring that all players in the petroleum sector adhere to the law, and those who fail to comply will face the full weight of regulatory penalties. As the crackdown intensifies, fuel marketers are being urged to comply with the authority’s directives and contribute to the collective effort to protect Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
Source: Nairametrics
