As residents of Lokoja, Kogi State, struggle to cope with unprecedented flood, the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, says the flood has affected fuel supply to Abuja, resulting in the re-emergence of fuel queues in filling stations across the city.
NMDPRA, in a statement by its Corporate Communications department, on Wednesday, said “part of measures to mitigate the situation, trucking via alternative routes is currently ongoing,” while assuring the public that there are sufficient petroleum products inland.
“The Authority wishes to state that the fuel queues are caused by unprecedented flooding in Lokoja, Kogi State, which has submerged a greater part of the city and grounded all vehicular movements.
“This unfortunately has affected the distribution of petroleum products to the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, and environs.
“Consequently, the general public is advised to avoid panic buying at the stations as the NMDPRA is working assiduously with relevant stakeholders and Government agencies to ensure product availability across the country.
“In the same context, Marketers are advised to desist from hoarding the product so as not to inflict hardship on Nigerians.
“The Authority wishes to reiterate its commitment to Nigerians to ensure seamless supply and distribution of Petroleum Products nationwide,” the statement read in part.