The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has issued a stern warning to petroleum marketers against hoarding and engaging in unethical practices during the yuletide season and beyond.
This was made known in Osogbo by the NMDPRA State Coordinator, Kunle Adeyemo, while addressing journalists on Wednesday.
He emphasized that any marketer found hoarding fuel or tampering with pump settings illegally would face strict sanctions.
Adeyemo, in his statement, noted that the agency would intensify its monitoring and surveillance efforts across the state to ensure compliance with its regulatory mandate. This includes checks on the quality, quantity, and safety of operations at petroleum outlets.
“Petroleum products are available in all the depots around the country,” Adeyemo assured. “Marketers should not engage in diversion, under-dispensing, hoarding, adulteration, and unsafe acts in petroleum retail outlets. Any marketer or operator caught engaging in sharp practices will be sanctioned accordingly. “he stated
He, however, advised motorists to refrain from panic buying or storing fuel in residential areas, noting the potential for fire disasters.
“Members of the public should also desist from storing petroleum products at homes because such action can cause fire outbreaks,” he added.
Adeyemo reassured residents that the Federal Government had ensured a sufficient supply of petroleum products to last throughout the festive season and beyond, making panic buying unnecessary.
The NMDPRA coordinator also urged residents to only patronize certified and approved gas facilities within the state.