CALABAR — Filling stations belonging to both independent and major marketers in Calabar have shut down operations in compliance with the ongoing strike declared by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
A Vanguard check across the Cross River capital on Tuesday showed that outlets along Etta Agbor, Marian, and Calabar South were all under lock and key. The closures followed fears of sanctions from NUPENG’s task force amid the union’s dispute with the Dangote Group.
Most stations reportedly stopped selling fuel late Monday night, while a few dispensed briefly on Tuesday morning before shutting their gates.
As of press time, only NNPC outlets were selling petrol, but long, chaotic queues stretched several metres from their pumps. Major marketers such as Fynefield and MRS remained closed, while Mobil, Eterna, Shafa, Uddy King, and Total stations also locked up.
The shutdown has created an opening for black market operators, who are now selling petrol at between ₦1,300 and ₦1,500 per litre, depending on the location.
Commuters have been the hardest hit, as transport fares have doubled or tripled. For example, routes that previously cost ₦200 now go for ₦500, while ₦300 fares have jumped to ₦600.
Unable to afford the new costs, many residents were seen trekking long distances, particularly from Atimbo Roundabout through Etta Agbor to Watt Market.
