Fuel price hike: IPMAN in A’Ibom State suspends strike

Ini Billie, Uyo

The artificial fuel scarcity in Akwa Ibom State following the indefinite strike embarked by the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has ended.

Following the strike, fuel stations in Uyo, the state capital were shut, causing those remaining open for business to sell fuel between N1,700 and N2,000 per litre, while the black market sold for N2,500; the fuel stations have been opened for business.

IPMAN embarked on the strike to protest the seizure of two fuel trucks by the Joint Task Force (JTF) personnel in Ibaka, Mbo Local Government Area.

But after the governor, Mr Umo Eno met with key union leaders in the petroleum sector and promised to resolve the issues that led to the strike, the strike was called off.

In a press statement signed by the Commissioner of Information, Mr Ini Ememobong on Wednesday in Uyo, the governor directed the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways to liaise with the relevant authorities to intervene in the seizure of the petrol trucks by the Joint Task Force, and promised to establish a petroleum depot in the state.

“The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, met today with leaders of key unions in the petroleum sector to address the issues that led to the recent ban on the sale of petroleum products in the state.

“The governor was informed that two petroleum trucks were confiscated in Mbo Local Government Area by federal agencies and have been detained since May 2024.

“While acknowledging that the matter falls outside his jurisdiction, the governor has directed the Commissioner for Internal Security and Waterways to liaise with the relevant authorities to ascertain the facts of the case.

Additionally, he expressed his commitment to exploring the establishment of a petroleum depot in Akwa Ibom State.

“In response, the union leaders thanked the Governor for his proactive engagement and pledged to lift the ban immediately, ensuring that petroleum products will be made available to the public”, the statement stated.