In Ogun state, residents living in border communities between Nigeria and Benin Republic have raised concerns about the soaring price of Petroleum Motor Spirit (petrol), which has skyrocketed to N2,000 per litre in some areas. This steep increase in fuel costs is causing financial strain for residents in various locations like Idiroko, Ijofin, Agosasa, Ipokia, Iwoye Ketu, Tube, Oniro, Araromi ofo, Ilate, Ohunbo, Agada, Maahun, and Tungeji in Ipokia and Imeko Afon Local Government Areas.
Reports indicate that only four filling stations – Olafems Oil, Mobil Fueling Station, Oppresso Oil and Gas, and Somolab Fueling Station – are authorized by the Federal government to sell petrol. While these authorized stations offer fuel at prices between N1,200 and N1,300 per litre, black market sellers are charging between N1,500 and N2,000 per litre.
The surge in fuel prices is linked to smuggling activities across the border, where fuel is sold at higher rates. In response, former President Muhammadu Buhari had imposed a ban in 2019 on supplying petroleum products to petrol stations within a 20km radius of the border to prevent fuel diversion to neighboring countries.
Despite some waivers being granted later on to certain filling stations in border communities, the number remains insufficient to meet the needs of the population. Many residents are heavily reliant on the black market for their fuel needs, as they face challenges accessing affordable fuel from authorized stations.
Local leaders and residents have criticized the authorized filling stations for allegedly favoring smugglers over local consumers, exacerbating economic challenges in the border areas. The limited number of petrol stations and supply constraints have led to significant hardships for the residents, forcing them to endure high transportation costs and confrontations with customs officials.
Efforts to address these issues, including calls to lift the petrol sale ban and allow more filling stations to operate, have been voiced by community representatives like Ismael Balogun and Imoleayo Mawutin. However, the situation remains dire, with residents having to travel long distances to obtain fuel, further straining their livelihoods and disrupting essential services like healthcare and small businesses.
In response to allegations of harassment by customs officers, the Public Relations Officer of Ogun State Command of Customs, Hammed Oloyede, refuted the claims and urged residents to address their concerns through proper channels.