By Ogbebor Tony Ikponmwosa
In the wake of the removal of fuel subsidy, the Edo State Government has swiftly implemented measures to address the ensuing fuel crisis and alleviate the challenges faced by residents. Demonstrating proactive governance, the Petroleum Monitoring Committee set up by Governor Godwin Obaseki has taken decisive steps to control the situation and ensure the availability of fuel within the State, to the commendation of many residents.
With the aim of ensuring transparency, accountability, and the availability of fuel to residents, the Task Force led by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Mining, Oil and Gas, Engr. Ferguson Enabulele embarked on a comprehensive tour of petrol stations in various locations within the state capital on Tuesday, May 30, 2023. The team meticulously assessed the operational status, fuel stock levels, and adherence to government regulations at each station visited.
Speaking at the exercise, Enabulele assured Edo residents of the State Government’s commitment to alleviating the effects caused by fuel subsidy removal, such as the hike in price and scarcity of the product. He acknowledged the challenges arising from the abrupt removal of subsidy, stating, “We are in a quagmire because of the pronouncement that was made without a framework to carry it out. Clearly, now there is panic at all levels, people think that this is the opportunity to stockpile petroleum products, and marketers think that this is an opportunity to skyrocket their prices.”
Commending the efforts made by the State Government, the Permanent Secretary mentioned that the effect of fuel scarcity is disastrous as it causes a multiplier effect in the economy that ultimately leads to an increase in the price of commodities and labor. He highlighted the role of the Edo State Government as an intermediary to cushion the effect of the fuel subsidy removal.
During the event, Mr. Kelvin Uwaibi, the Managing Director of the Edo State Ease Investment Promotion Office (ESIPO), emphasized the urgency of addressing the ongoing situation to prevent any potential economic downturn in the State. He stated, “We really want to make sure that there is no economic downtime, and one of the things that can create economic downtime is when logistics are affected, and that bothers on being able to get fuel because the majority of the vehicles that move both goods and humans need fuel.”
The appearance of the Task Force was positively received by residents who informed the team of petrol stations that were hoarding the product. Several petrol stations, including NNPC Mega Station, Raptor Petrol Station, and ZEEK Oil and Gas, were visited during the tour, and necessary actions were taken to ensure the availability of fuel to the public.
As the Edo State Government takes proactive steps to address the fuel scarcity issue, residents express their gratitude for the swift response and efforts made to alleviate their challenges. The government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the availability of fuel reinforces its dedication to the welfare of the people.
