The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has voiced concerns over the high logistical costs associated with purchasing petrol from the Dangote refinery, leading members to seek more affordable alternatives at other depots nationwide.

IPMAN Secretary Suleiman stated, “If Dangote sets a price at N1,000 per litre and another supplier offers it for N900, we can’t prioritize our relationship with Dangote over profitability. We have to buy where the prices are lower.” He noted that last week, Dangote’s price was N995 per litre, while crude prices globally are on the decline. With additional transport and loading costs, he questioned how they could sell at competitive prices.

Suleiman emphasized the need to support Nigerians during tough economic times by sourcing cheaper fuel. He also criticized Aliko Dangote for not engaging with key stakeholders in the fuel supply chain, which he believes has hindered independent marketers’ access to the refinery.

“Dangote should convene a stakeholders’ meeting with IPMAN, MOMAN, and DAPMAN to collaboratively address these issues,” Suleiman urged. He argued that direct sales to IPMAN at a fair price would significantly reduce fuel costs across Nigeria.

Despite repeated attempts to engage with Dangote, Suleiman lamented that IPMAN’s outreach efforts have gone unanswered, as they seek a partnership that could benefit both the refinery and the marketers.

On October 29, Dangote announced that the refinery has over 500 million litres of petrol available, but oil marketers have not been purchasing the product. In a rebuttal, IPMAN claimed its members have faced delays in loading petrol, alleging that a N40 billion payment to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) was made.

In response, the Dangote refinery stated it has not received any payment from IPMAN for refined products, underscoring the ongoing tension between the two parties.