Long queues have returned to petrol stations across Nigeria as motorists scramble to buy what they believe is cheaper and more durable petrol from selected fuel stations.
Major fuel retailers such as MRS, Ardova Plc, and Heyden Petroleum have seen an influx of customers after securing a bulk purchase agreement with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, allowing them to lift fuel directly from the facility. Motorists say fuel from these stations lasts longer and is more affordable than what is sold at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) stations.
Motorists Prefer Dangote-Refined Fuel
A viral TikTok video by @valorreviews has intensified the debate over fuel quality in Nigeria. The video shows a man testing petrol from MRS and NNPC in two identical “I better pass my neighbour” generators. According to the video, the NNPC-sourced fuel lasted 17 minutes, while the Dangote fuel ran for 33 minutes.
The clip quickly gained traction, with many Nigerians confirming similar experiences.
A commercial bus driver, Samuel Okonkwo said, “I left home at 6 a.m. just to be among the first in line. I’d rather wait than buy fuel that burns out too quickly.”
Another motorist, Mariam Sulaiman, an Uber driver, shared her frustration: “I bought fuel from a random station once, and my tank emptied in just two days. Since then, I only buy from this MRS station, even if it means waiting in long queues.”
The situation is the same in Ibadan, Oyo State, where queues at some petrol stations stretch for kilometers. Tunde Adewale, a taxi driver, said he had been waiting for over two hours.
“I heard the fuel here is not only cheaper but also lasts longer. With the way things are going, I can’t afford to miss this opportunity,” he said.
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Fuel Price Cuts Drive Demand
Adding to the frenzy, Dangote Refinery recently announced a N65 reduction in petrol prices, lowering the ex-depot price from N890 to N825 per litre. This marks the second price cut in the new year and the third in two months.
“It is important to note that Dangote Petroleum Refinery has consistently lowered the prices of petrol and other refined petroleum products to the benefit of Nigerians,” the refinery said in a statement.
The price reduction has intensified demand, with fuel station attendants working extra hours to manage the rush.
“Some customers even come from the Mainland just to buy here,” said Chinedu Uzordike, a pump attendant at one of Lagos’ busiest stations.
NNPC Responds to Controversy
Despite growing concerns over fuel quality, NNPC has denied that its petrol is inferior.
“It is important to emphasise that a significant percentage of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) sold at NNPC retail stations in Lagos—where this deceptive video was created—is sourced from the Dangote Refinery, a strategic partner in promoting local production and energy security,” said Olufemi Soneye, NNPC’s chief corporate communications officer.
However, many Nigerians remain skeptical, preferring personal experience over official statements.
A commercial tricycle rider, Olajide Adesanya said, “Time is money. But in this case, waiting a little longer helps me save a lot more.”