Residents of Gwagwalada are grappling with an escalating fuel scarcity crisis, with black marketers stepping in to dominate the sales. Allegations have emerged that fuel stations are locking up their pumps to sell at higher prices, causing an immediate hike in fuel costs and adding to the struggles of Nigerians already burdened by economic challenges.
The once-bustling fuel stations now present a stark contrast, with long queues of vehicles and frustrated drivers becoming a common sight. Motorists report waiting for hours, only to be turned away or forced to buy from black marketers at prices far above the official rate.
“I’ve been here since dawn,” says Musa Abdullahi, a local taxi driver. “The stations are closed or only selling to black marketers. We are left with no choice but to buy from them at double the price.”
“They sell a few liters in the morning, then close and sell the rest to black marketers at night,” claims a school teacher.
The impact of this fuel scarcity is far-reaching, affecting daily commuters, businesses, and essential services. The hike in transportation costs is driving up the prices of goods and services, adding to the financial strain on households.