Yobe task force clamps down on stations hoarding petrol

The Yobe State Task Force on Petroleum Products (YTPP) has embarked on an unscheduled monitoring and supervision to filling stations over lingering fuel scarcity especially in Damaturu, the state capital.

The Chairman of the taskforce who is also the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Dr Musa Abba Kolere, while speaking on the exercise, said the visit became necessary as some filling stations were in the habit of hoarding the product to the detriment of end users.

Kolere said though the team cannot force the adjustment of the increment on pump price, the government will not fold its arm while filling stations create unnecessary hardship for the people.

Checks showed that most petrol stations within the metropolis remained closed due to lack of the product, while the few ones that have it, are selling the commodity at the cost of N245 to N250 per litre in addition to unprecedented long queues.

Desperate motorists are reportedly traveling outside the state capital just to source for fuel.

A gallon of premium motor spirit (PMS) at black market sold for N3,600 on Thursday morning across Damaturu, forcing an increase in the transport fare by commercial drivers and tricycle operators.