Fear of post-election violence blamed for fuel scarcity

Abuja - The Department of State Services (DSS) said
investigation revealed that the current petrol scarcity in the
Northern part of the country was premised on fear of post-
election violence.
This is contained in a statement issued by the spokesperson
of the DSS, Marilyn Ogar on Thursday in Abuja.
Ogar explained that the situation was as a result of fear by
the National Association of Transport Owners (NARTO)
that they might be caught in likely election violence as was
witnessed in 2011.
"This Service has observed lately the build-up of queues at
petrol stations.
"Investigation has revealed that trucks that would hitherto
have loaded products from the South for distribution in the
North are reluctant to do so,’’ she said
Ogar said that government recognised that NARTO and
such other unions provide essential services and as such
adequate security arrangements had been put in place to
guarantee the safety of their members.
"Consequently, Brigade Commanders, Police
Commissioners and State Directors of the DSS have
been directed by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the
IGP and the DGSS, respectively, to provide adequate
security.
She said that NNPC had assured that there was adequate
petrol to meet demand before, during and after the
elections.
"Therefore, we want to urge the public not to resort to
panic buying and hoarding.
"Once more, we want to reassure NARTO and indeed
all Nigerians of the security and safety of their lives and
property,’’ Ogar said.
- NAN