Something strange is happening across Nigeria’s petrol stations — and Nigerians are feeling it hard.
Just weeks after the Dangote Refinery brought a spark of hope with its relatively affordable fuel prices, many filling stations have now released their own rates, way higher than Dangote’s. The result? Long queues, angry drivers, and a familiar story of artificial scarcity that keeps repeating itself.
The Price Drama
In cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Ilorin, drivers say they are paying between ₦950 and ₦1,200 per litre, depending on where they buy.
Meanwhile, Dangote’s refinery — the supposed game changer — is reportedly selling at a much lower rate.
So, why the difference?
Many independent marketers are blaming “logistics” and “transportation costs,” but most Nigerians aren’t buying that excuse. It feels like the old trick again — hoard, delay, and then jack up prices when panic starts to spread.
“We’re Tired of This Cycle”
Across social media, the frustration is loud.
“Every time there’s good news in this country, someone finds a way to spoil it,” one user tweeted.
“If Dangote can refine fuel locally, why are we still paying like we’re importing from Mars?” another asked.
The mood on the streets is tense too. Bus drivers are shouting, passengers are stranded, and black market sellers are back in business — charging almost double the official price.
Regulators Step In
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) says it’s aware of the situation and is sending teams out to monitor stations. But Nigerians have heard that before. Investigations come and go, yet the problem never really disappears.
A senior official said the agency will “take action” against anyone found guilty of price manipulation. But for now, the queues are getting longer, not shorter.
The Bigger Question
Why does this keep happening?
Even with local refining finally becoming a reality, Nigerians are still paying more than they should — not because fuel is scarce, but because greed and weak regulation keep winning.
Until the government finds a way to stop this endless cycle of hoarding and artificial inflation, ordinary citizens will keep paying the price — literally.
Bottom Line
Every new refinery, every new promise, and every new reform feels like a fresh start — until the same players turn hope into hardship again.
At this point, many Nigerians are just asking one simple question:
“When will fuel stop being a crisis in this country?”
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