The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has sealed seven fuel stations in Kogi State for under-dispensing fuel and operating without proper authorization.
Ogbe Godwin, the NMDPRA Kogi State Coordinator, announced the closures during a press conference in Lokoja on Thursday, highlighting the agency’s commitment to ensuring compliance and protecting consumers.
Godwin explained that the fuel stations had been inspected as part of a routine check, and seven were found guilty of under-dispensing fuel to customers. He stated that this practice, alongside unauthorized branding, undermines the regulatory system and harms the public.
“It is so disheartening to note that some people keep sabotaging the effort of the system for their own selfish interests,” Godwin remarked. “We are not telling them not to sell their product at their own price, but cheating the public, we will not condone it. It is a big offence to under-dispense petroleum products to customers. Any petroleum marketer caught will face the full wrath of the law.”
The affected fuel stations include Solag Resources Limited in Ankpa, Hismus Oil and Gas in Obajana, Riyenic Global Limited in Kabba, and S.O.T Nigeria Limited in Omuo Kabba, which were found guilty of under-dispensing. Marktot Oil and Gas in Kabba was also sealed for unauthorized branding, while NIPCO Filling Station Phase 1 in Lokoja was closed for the same violation.
In addition to these, four other stations were sealed in Ankpa for operating without licenses: Absala Oil and Gas, Yak Ali Oil and Gas, Yamuda Nigeria Limited, and Hanimat Nigeria Limited.
Godwin issued a stern warning to any unlicensed fuel stations, urging them to register with the Federal Government or face legal consequences. “There won’t be any breathing space for individuals who intend to sabotage government efforts in ensuring that petroleum products are available without any compromise,” he emphasized.
These closures and penalties aim to ensure that fuel stations in Kogi State operate in compliance with the law, safeguarding consumers and maintaining the integrity of the petroleum industry.
