Some States, Like Sokoto and Delta Already Seeing Fresh Fuel Scarcity

Sokoto residents may soon face acute transportation problems as petrol stations in the state capital began shutting down on Monday.

Members of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) sealed outlets and stopped tankers from moving fuel through key routes, including Gusau Road and other highways.

Eyewitnesses said barricades and leaves were used to block strategic points, disrupting the flow of fuel in Sokoto metropolis.

Union representatives declined to speak on camera. But one enforcement officer, who requested anonymity, confirmed: “We received an instruction from our national leaders at midnight to enforce this shutdown. We are only carrying out orders.”

Rising Fears of Fuel Scarcity

Commercial drivers and tricycle operators in Sokoto said they were shocked by the sudden closure.

“I came out early to work and found that most filling stations are closed,” said tricyclist Bello Musa. “If this continues, transport fares will go up, and it will affect everybody. We don’t even know the reason for this strike.”

The action has raised fears of fuel scarcity, with motorists worried that transportation costs may soar and affect daily living in one of Nigeria’s poorest states. Sokoto’s local economy, heavily reliant on road transport, could be hit hard if the strike lingers.

So far, NUPENG’s national leadership has not issued an official statement explaining the directive. This uncertainty has left commuters, traders, and business owners stranded, waiting for clarity on when fuel supply may resume.

Meanwhile, Delta State faces its own looming shutdown. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and NUPENG have announced an indefinite strike starting Monday, September 8, 2025.

A circular issued after an emergency meeting on September 6 warned marketers to comply or face a heavy sanction. “Any station found wanting will pay a fine of ₦1 million. Please pass this message round, as injury to one is injury to all,” the unions declared.

If enforced, the strike could cut fuel supply across Delta and spill into other South-South states, where petroleum distribution chains are closely linked. Nigerians already dealing with rising pump prices after subsidy removal may feel the pressure even more.

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