Roadside black market booms as motorists stranded
Residents of Calabar are facing fuel scarcity as petrol stations across the city shut down in solidarity with the ongoing NUPENG strike.
A Tuesday survey by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) revealed that most fuel stations in Calabar metropolis were closed, with many now turning to roadside vendors for fuel—at much higher prices.
Why the strike?
The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) began an indefinite nationwide strike over what it describes as anti-labour practices by Dangote Refinery.
The union alleges that the refinery plans to hire non-union drivers, potentially rendering over 250,000 union members jobless.
One station manager in Atimbo, who spoke anonymously, said:
“We were ordered by our union to suspend services. Any station caught selling fuel could face a ₦1 million fine.”
Residents frustrated, roadside vendors cash in
With stations closed, black market fuel sellers have popped up across the city, selling at inflated prices. This has left many motorists scrambling—and angry.
Commercial driver Aniekan Edet said:
“We’re now buying fuel above the official pump price. This will only increase transport fares if it continues.”
Stranded resident Adebisi Adelabu shared her frustration:
“I couldn’t refuel my car to take the kids to school. If I don’t get fuel today, I’m stuck tomorrow. It’s frustrating.”
