An investigation has revealed that fuel hawkers are selling petrol cheaper than filling stations in Lagos, amid the ongoing fuel scarcity. Hawkers along Mile 2-Apapa expressway are selling fuel at ₦1,000 per litre, compared to ₦1,070 and above at most filling stations controlled by independent marketers.
The investigation showed that while fuel may not be available at some filling stations, motorists can easily find fuel to buy from nearby hawkers displaying the product in white gallons. These hawkers seem to have a constant supply of fuel, which they source from tanker drivers at night.
Motorists have resorted to buying fuel from these hawkers, who are selling at competitive prices and offering the same quality of fuel as filling stations. The situation has become critical, with motorists at the mercy of filling stations and relying on hawkers as a last option.
The fuel scarcity has led to a hike in prices, with some filling stations selling petrol at ₦1,400 per litre. Stakeholders have said that the price hike is unavoidable and will help ease the subsidy burden.
- Vanguard.
