Despite the Dangote Refinery’s move to slash petrol ex-depot prices to ₦820 per litre under its logistics-free distribution scheme, most of its partner marketers have yet to reflect the reduction at their pumps.
Findings over the weekend showed that major dealers, including Heyden, Ardova, and AP, continued to sell petrol at an average of ₦865 per litre, with only a few MRS outlets adjusting their prices to ₦841. The MRS station at Alapere recorded heavy queues as motorists rushed to benefit from the lower price, while others nearby maintained higher rates.
In Ogun State, petrol was sold for ₦875 per litre at the MRS station in Olowotedo, while Heyden and Ardova outlets offered prices ranging from ₦863 to ₦870. The situation has raised concerns among motorists who were anticipating relief at the pumps following the refinery’s intervention.
The Dangote Refinery had earlier announced that, starting September 15, prices were expected to fall as over 1,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks began nationwide fuel distribution, eliminating logistics costs.
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Under the plan, motorists in Lagos and other South-West states were to buy petrol at ₦841 per litre, while Abuja, Rivers, Delta, Edo, and Kwara were projected at ₦851.
Nearly three weeks later, the expected price adjustment has not materialised. Although some marketers claim they are still dispensing old stock, refinery sources insist most have received new supplies and should have implemented the new pricing structure.
