By Thompson ABISOLA
Independent Petroleum marketers in Anambra States have shut their filling stations in protest for the demolition of a member’s property by the state government.
The marketers, under the aegis of Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), said a filling station belonging to Chipet Petroleum on Azikiwe Avenue, Fegge in Onitsha, was demolished by Anambra Government for alleged improper siting without compensation to the owner.
TBI Africa correspondent who monitored the situation reports that there was total compliance in Awka as filling stations in the capital city were closed on Wednesday.
There was also panic buying of petroleum products on Tuesday night as customers scrambled in last minute rush to avoid being caught in the face off.
One of the marketers, who spoke on anonymously, said the destroyed property passed through all the legal and approval processes, including the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O).
He said all efforts through letters of conciliation to get Anambra Government to compensate the owner had met the brick wall.
The marketer said the Enugu Depot IPMAN, had decided to shut down operations of their members in Anambra in solidarity with Chipet Petroleum.
Chief Cletus Obiokafor, Chairman of petroleum dealers in Anambra confirmed the protest by members, saying it was the decision of the Enugu Depot of IPMAN. Obiokafor said he could not say when the face off will end.
Reacting Mr C-Don Adinuba, Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment in the state said efforts were on to resolve the impasse.
Adinuba said officials of government and the leadership of IPMAN would meet on the matter.
