The government of Edo State has issued a stern warning to fuel stations and dealers regarding the hoarding of petroleum products following the withdrawal of fuel subsidies.
In response to reports of increased fuel prices and long queues at fuel stations shortly after President Tinubu's announcement of subsidy removal, the Edo government has taken action.
In a statement released by Osaigbovo Iyoha, the Chief of Staff to Governor Godwin Obaseki, fuel station owners were directly addressed regarding their practice of hoarding petroleum products. The statement reads:
“The attention of Edo State Government has been drawn to the unscrupulous attempt by petrol dealers in the state to hoard fuel and create artificial scarcity and price hike.
As a responsible government that cares for its citizens, we shall resist this economic sabotage by every legal means possible.
To this end, all petrol stations are ordered to immediately resume sales of the products to Edo people or risk immediate closure, and possible revocation of their property to enable others who want to do legitimate and respectful business in Edo State to come and invest,” the statement said.
Furthermore, the government emphasized its determination to prevent the extortion of Edo residents and issued a strong warning, stating that "a word is enough for the wise."