Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) has sealed 12 petrol retail outlets in Abak, Uyo, Uruan, Ukanafun and other areas in Akwa Ibom State between October 5 and 10, 2023.

Head of Distribution Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure (DSSRI) at NMDPRA in the state, Mrs. Nsima Isong, led the surveillance team that sealed the stations for various offences bordering on under-dispensing of products, operating without licence, amongst others.

Isong told The Guardian, on behalf of Akwa Ibom State Coordinator of NMDPRA, Ikechukwu Eseka, that one of the mandates of the authority was to ensure that Akwa Ibom citizens were not short-changed by the marketers in any way or circumstance .

She said: “The purpose of the exercise is to ensure marketers’ compliance and to see that consumers are not short-changed, thus obtaining full value for their money. It is imperative that marketers’ pumps discharge accurately.

“Most of the petrol stations sealed were selling with expired licences, resulting in their closure.”

While assuring that the exercise would be a continuous one, Isong encouraged consumers to report any petroleum marketer, who indulges in sharp practices, for appropriate action.