The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has shut down two petroleum retail outlets and two gas stations in Delta State due to sharp practices.
Delta State Coordinator of NMDPRA, Victor Ohwodiasa, disclosed this on November 14, 2024, while briefing journalists in Warri, Delta State.
Ohwodiasa explained that the closure of the fuel dispensing and gas outlets took place on November 12 and November 13, 2024, at locations around Asaba and Ibusa, following surveillance by the regulatory authority’s team.
He noted that the affected stations were involved in practices including under-dispensing, operating without valid licences, and other illegalities.
“The authority will not tolerate any situation where consumers are shortchanged. Our mandate is to protect consumers and ensure they receive what they pay for. When we detect violations like under-dispensing, we immediately act to seal the facilities involved,” Ohwodiasa stated.
He said NMDPRA would continue to enforce strict standards to limit any discrepancies in dispensing fuel, adding that “there may be slight mechanical errors, but when they exceed allowable limits, we shut down the facility. One litre should be one litre—no more, no less.”
Ohwodiasa further urged petroleum marketers to ensure their pumps are accurately calibrated to avoid discrepancies that could defraud customers.
“Our surveillance activities are aimed at protecting consumers. This week alone, we sealed four stations in Asaba and Ibusa for failing to comply with licensing and dispensing regulations,” he said.
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The coordinator added that NMDPRA will maintain this level of vigilance during the ember months to protect consumers during the high-demand season.
“We are committed to ensuring that petroleum products remain available to consumers, sold at fair prices, and accurately dispensed,” he said.
He encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities at filling stations, such as under-dispensing, poor product quality, or suspected diversions, to the regulatory body.
“We rely on consumers to be vigilant and report such cases, so we can act swiftly to ensure compliance,” he noted.
Ohwodiasa assured Deltans that NMDPRA would continue monitoring fuel outlets across the state to maintain standards and address consumer complaints promptly.
