The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reportedly halted the sale of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, to the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).

This decision follows a recent increase in fuel prices announced by NNPCL on Tuesday.

The price surge has seen the cost of petrol at major filling stations in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Lagos, Delta, and Enugu states rise to between N855 and N1,000 per litre

In response to the NNPCL’s price adjustment, some independent marketers have escalated their prices further, with reports indicating that fuel is being sold at N1,200 to N1,300 per litre in various states.

Despite the substantial increase in pump prices, many filling stations across the country have suspended fuel dispensing.

This shortage has led to significant disruptions, with a notable absence of fuel availability in major urban centres.

On Wednesday, Hammed Fashola, the National Vice President of IPMAN, confirmed that the NNPCL had suspended the issuance of tickets for petrol loading, effectively barring IPMAN members from acquiring fuel from the depots.

“Yes, our tickets were suspended for loading. They have not been attending to us since yesterday (Tuesday), and there is no official communication yet,” Fashola stated.

At the time of this report, Abubakar Maigandi had not provided a statement on the issue, and NNPCL’s Spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, had yet to comment on the matter.

The NNPCL has not released any official announcement regarding the recent price adjustments or the halting of fuel sales.

The situation has sparked protests, with tricycle operators in Delta State taking to the streets to express their discontent over the rising cost of petrol.