In a development that could plunge Nigeria into a fresh round of fuel scarcity, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), demanding the immediate payment of outstanding bridging claims amounting to a staggering N100 billion.
The association made the announcement via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, warning that failure to settle the debt within the stipulated timeframe would result in a total withdrawal of services, a move that could severely disrupt fuel supply across the country.
Bridging claims are payments meant to compensate marketers for the cost of transporting petroleum products from depots to distant locations, ensuring nationwide availability. The delay in settling these claims has reportedly put many marketers under financial strain, threatening the stability of fuel distribution.
With the deadline fast approaching, concerns are mounting over the potential impact of IPMAN’s action. A withdrawal of services could trigger long queues at fuel stations, price hikes, and an economic ripple effect that could further worsen the hardship faced by millions of Nigerians.
As tensions escalate, all eyes are now on the NMDPRA and the Federal Government to avert a looming crisis. Will the authorities act swiftly to meet the marketers’ demands, or will Nigerians brace for another round of fuel scarcity? The coming days will tell.
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