Petroleum users in Port Harcourt woke up yesterday Wednesday 5th September, 2012 to discover that it had become difficult to procure the product from filling stations. Following this development comuters found it extremely difficult to get to work or other desired destinations. Taxi cabs who were seen in long queues at the stations meant fewer cabs operated making commuters to trek long distances.
But The Newswriter investigations revealed that there was no substance in the rumour making the rounds in Port Harcourt metropolis of an impending spate of fuel scarcity. However, some users subsequently interviewed by our correspondent maintained that they’ve been finding it difficult to buy fuel at the filling stations. Others stated that where you are able to see to buy, the prices are usually jacked up though they will display the N97.00 but the worth of what you will be sold will definitely not be at the rate displayed.
Debunking the scarcity rumour then is no other than the chairman. Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) Prince Sam Nkpe saying there was no cause for alarm as there was nothing like fuel scarcity in the city.
He said “when we sensed the development as in sellers acting funny and sending panic waves to petroleum users we made adequate provision as has always been the case.
“To this effect, we released 25 trucks last week which went straight into circulation. Also we have started to release intervention barges for the metropolis until the situation improves. All I will advice is that people should exercise patience. I have directed our task force on petroleum and that of Rivers State to monitor the distribution of these products in the city to make sure they are not diverted. ####
Pascal Agbadah
