Lagos and several parts of Nigeria are facing a potential fuel shortage as tanker drivers have stopped loading fuel in protest against alleged harassment by government officials.
The strike, which began over the weekend, has already triggered panic buying, with long queues forming at petrol stations. Additionally, telecommunications companies have warned that the disruption could affect diesel supply, potentially leading to a network blackout.
The drivers, under the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), accuse the Lagos State Task Force and the Federal Ministry of Transportation of harassment.
NARTO’s National President, Yusuf Othman, stated:
“The task force in Lagos State is towing our trucks and beating our drivers. They even damaged one of our union’s vehicles. Because of this, there was no fuel loading on Saturday and Sunday.”
He expressed uncertainty about when operations would resume, saying, “I cannot say for sure if there will be any loading tomorrow (Monday). Everything depends on how the government handles the situation.”
Othman also clarified that the protest is not related to the recent ban on 60,000 trucks but is solely about ongoing disputes with Lagos State authorities.
The Lagos State Government defended its actions, insisting that it is merely enforcing its e-call-up system, a digital platform introduced in September 2024 to regulate truck movement, particularly around Lekki-Epe.
Wale Musa, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, stated:
“We are aware that enforcement was carried out at the Dangote refinery axis. This enforcement ensures compliance with the e-call-up system. We will not allow them to turn that place into another Apapa.”
He dismissed the strike as an attempt to blackmail the government, urging all parties to comply with the system for the public good.
Potential Fallout
- Fuel shortages may worsen in the coming days if the impasse persists.
- Telecom networks could experience disruptions due to diesel supply issues.
- Businesses and residents may struggle with increased fuel prices and scarcity.
The standoff now hinges on whether government authorities and tanker drivers can reach a resolution before the crisis escalates further.
