The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has debunked reports claiming that its members have suspended the lifting of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, from the Dangote Refinery.
Speaking with DAILY POST on Monday, IPMAN’s National Publicity Secretary, Chinedu Ukadike, described the reports as false, insisting that marketers are still loading petroleum products from the 700,000-barrel-per-day refinery.
“It is not true. Our members never suspended petrol lifting from Dangote Refinery,” Ukadike said.
His clarification follows widespread reports alleging that independent marketers had halted product lifting in protest against the refinery’s decision to sell refined petroleum products in U.S. dollars.
Ukadike, however, noted that operators in the downstream petroleum sector are facing significant uncertainty, making business operations increasingly challenging.
He urged the Federal Government to engage with Dangote Refinery and facilitate discussions aimed at restoring the sale of refined petroleum products in naira, a move he believes would help stabilize the downstream market.
The development comes days after Dangote Refinery resumed the sale of refined petroleum products in dollars, a policy shift that has intensified volatility in Nigeria’s fuel market.
Since the decision took effect, petrol prices have risen sharply, increasing by more than ₦100 per litre within a week. Pump prices in Abuja and surrounding areas now range between ₦1,155 and ₦1,280 per litre, adding to the financial burden on consumers.
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