Task Force Out to Curb Sharp Practices, Not to Intimidate People, Ogun Replies IPMAN

James Sowole in Abeokuta

The Ogun State Government yesterday stated that the task force set up in the petroleum industry was to address fuel meter tampering and other sharp practices among operators, even as it debunked allegations of harassment and intimidation.

The state Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Olugbenga Dairo, said that contrary to the allegations of harassment and intimidation leveled against the task force by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), the government, faced with soaring transportation costs and public outcry over fuel pricing malpractices, took a proactive approach by establishing the task force aimed at regulating and ensuring fair practices within the petroleum sector.

The commissioner disclosed that in the course of its duties, the task force observed some sharp practices by certain filling stations, including tampering with their dispensers.

He mentioned that while carrying out its mandate, the task force discovered sharp practices at several filling stations visited, leading to financial losses for unsuspecting members of the public.

Analysis of the filling stations visited, according to him, showed that at Bugatee Filling Station, Idi-Aba, there was a shortage of 0.71 litre on every 10- litre purchased, amounting to about N700 in losses.

MRS Filling Station, Afariogun Close, Ilaro, has a shortage of 0.74 litre on every 10 litre; AWO Filling Station, Aiyetoro Yewa, has a shortage of 0.62 litre on every 10 litre; and MRS, Ijebu Ode, has a 1-litre shortage on every 10 litre.

Others were MosBolarinde Concept Sotubo, Ogijo, with a 0.4-litre shortage on every 10 liters, and Petrocam Gas and Fuel Station, Lusada, with a 0.4-litre shortage on every 10 litre.

Dairo called on members of IPMAN to cooperate with the state government on the matter of fair pricing, adding that striking a balance between consumer protection and the operational freedoms of marketers is a delicate task that requires cooperation from all stakeholders.

“Moreover, the assertion that the task force’s establishment contravenes specific provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) could be seen as an interpretation that overlooks the necessity of regulatory measures in a market often fraught with irregularities.

“The government’s primary duty is to serve the public interest by ensuring fair pricing for fuel and combating unethical practices that can lead to inflationary pressures.

“Rather than threatening the stoppage of fuel supplies, a collaborative approach would be more beneficial for all parties involved. An open dialogue between IPMAN and the Ogun State government could lead to a mutually agreeable solution that addresses the concerns of marketers while prioritising the welfare of the public.

“The issues at hand can surely be resolved through constructive engagement, ensuring that both the rights of the marketers and the needs of consumers are met,” Dairo said.

The commissioner noted that the decision by IPMAN to escalate the issue by withdrawing services affects not just their businesses but also the residents of Ogun State who depend on an adequate fuel supply for daily activities.

Such drastic measures, he added, should be reconsidered in light of the potential hardships that may ensue and the paramount importance of public welfare.

The commissioner further assured commuters and transporters in Ogun State of the government’s zero tolerance for fuel pump manipulation and undue hikes in transportation prices.