The Edo State chapter of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has suspended its planned state‑wide strike, which was set to begin on Monday, February 20, 2023, after the state government intervened. Commissioner for Mining and Energy Ethan Uzamere announced the decision in Benin, noting that discussions among IPMAN, the Edo State Government, and the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) Edo State Office had been productive.
During the deliberations, the marketers’ concerns were reviewed, including the inability to buy and sell petroleum products profitably because the purchase price from depots exceeded the official selling rate mandated by the state government and NMDPRA. They also highlighted the need for increased security at their filling stations, many of which faced threats of attack.
Uzamere affirmed the government’s commitment to a lasting solution to the fuel‑scarcity crisis. He said the administration is strengthening partnerships with relevant stakeholders, seeking additional depots where marketers can purchase petroleum at reasonable prices, and enhancing security around filling stations to prevent attacks. Ongoing consultations will continue to address the remaining issues of scarcity and arbitrary pricing for the benefit of the people of Edo State.
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