Residents in border communities between Nigeria and Benin Republic in Ogun State are grappling with skyrocketing fuel prices, which have surged to as high as N2,000 per litre in some areas. The increase is severely impacting daily life in towns such as Idiroko, Ijofin, Agosasa, Ipokia, Iwoye Ketu, Tube, Oniro, Araromi Ofo, Ilate, Ohunbo, Agada, Maahun, and Tungeji across Ipokia and Imeko Afon Local Government Areas.
A recent report by newsmen reveals that only four filling stations—Olafems Oil, Mobil Fuelling Station, Oppresso Oil and Gas, and Somolab Fuelling Station—are authorized by the federal government to sell petrol. These stations offer fuel at N1,200 to N1,300 per litre, while black market sellers charge between N1,500 and N2,000 per litre.
The drastic increase in fuel prices is largely due to fuel smuggling across the border, where fuel is sold at inflated prices. Former President Muhammadu Buhari's 2019 ban on supplying petrol to stations within 20km of the border aimed to curb fuel diversion but has proven inadequate. Though waivers were granted to some stations, the number remains insufficient for the area's needs.
Residents accuse authorized stations of prioritizing sales to smugglers, exacerbating the fuel crisis. Ismael Balogun, a community leader in Ipokia, stated that the high fuel prices have devastated local economic activities. He also noted that the customs service's actions are worsening the situation.
Imoleayo Mawutin, Chairman of the Ipokia Local Government Youth Forum, criticized the limited number of petrol stations, which are inadequate for over 350,000 residents. He called for the government to lift the fuel sales ban and increase the number of authorized stations. Mawutin highlighted the severe impacts on local businesses, healthcare, and agriculture due to the fuel shortage and high prices.
The Ogun State Customs PRO, Hammed Oloyede, denied allegations of harassment, advising residents to direct their complaints to the appropriate authorities.
