The Joint Taskforce On Petroleum Monitoring in Cross River State has appealed for the collaboration of security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Navy and the Department of State Services (DSS), in order to prevent the diversion of petroleum products and unilateral price hikes.
Peter Okim, chairperson of the taskforce, is also seeking cooperation to crackdown on fuel hoarding, as well as other malpractices within the fuel sector, including the indiscriminate parking of trucks along the highway.
Okim made these appeals during a visit to the security agencies today.
“We have successfully cleared trucks parked on the highway that posed significant risks to motorists and residents of the state. Our next step is to clamp down on marketers who hoard, divert, or sell products above the regulated price,” Okim disclosed.
Boniface Okache, the secretary of the taskforce, also stated that Governor Bassey Otu has issued an order to close petrol stations and other related businesses that aim to sabotage the government’s efforts.
He emphasized that any petrol station that refuses to sell at the approved price is not fit to remain in business.
“However, the government is ready to create a conducive environment for all businesses to thrive, as long as they operate within the guidelines,” he added.
The taskforce was warmly received by Commodore VB Gbaranwi, Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship Victory (NNSV), and his counterpart from the Department of State Services, John Sokoya. They commended the taskforce for its successful operations so far.
They acknowledged that due to the extent of corruption within the sector, it would require a committed and decisive team to rectify the situation.
Furthermore, they expressed their willingness and readiness to partner with the taskforce in order to tackle the prevailing challenges.
