There were indications, weekend, that the prolonged petrol shortage in Lagos, Ogun and environs is worsened by illegal practices, especially arbitrary pricing and diversion, to unauthorised locations.
Checks by newsmen showed that some independent oil marketers, who complained about the high cost of lifting the product at depots, have devised means of taking the product to wherever they can get higher returns, instead of filling stations.
Newsmen gathered that due to the shortage and the high demand for the product, some companies and other corporate users are willing to pay more, compelling diversion by some marketers.
A reliable source in Apapa, Lagos, who pleaded anonymity, said: “These are abnormal times. Independent oil marketers lift the product at about N200 per litre at the private depots. They incur additional cost of using diesel to move it to their outlets in different parts of the nation before selling the product at between N210 and N240 per litre.
They have another option of selling it at even higher prices to companies, including transporters, which need the product to enhance their operations.
Oladipo Atinuke Sherifat popularly known as arikeokin 100, she is an Award winning Writer, On Air Personality, Community Developer, an enthusiast in writing journalistic beats, and editorial.
At the same time she volunteered in developing the community radio at KwaraPoly Radio.
She holds a Diploma in Mass Communication from a reputable higher institution in Nigeria and is currently a correspondent at Satcom Media.