Black Market Booms in Delta as IPMAN, NUPENG Shut Fuel Stations

By Ezekiel Kagbala 

Delta State is grappling with a severe fuel scarcity as members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) have commenced an indefinite strike. The strike, which began today, has led to the closure of numerous fuel stations across the state, prompting a surge in black market activities.

As fuel stations remain closed, desperate motorists and businesses have turned to roadside fuel retailers, who are now selling petrol at an alarming rate of 1,800 Naira per, many residents and road users are frustrated and struggling to cope with the rising costs of transportation and goods.

This came as members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) announced an indefinite strike beginning Monday, September 8, 2025.

The decision was reached after an emergency meeting held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where both unions resolved to shut down all filling stations across the state from 6:00 a.m. on Monday until further directives are issued by their national leadership.

In a circular distributed to marketers, the unions warned that any filling station found operating during the strike would be fined ₦1 million.

The notice read in part: “Arising from an emergency meeting today, 6th September 2025, IPMAN and NUPENG have agreed that as from Monday, 8th September 2025, all filling stations should remain closed pending further directives from our national leadership.

“Any station found wanting will pay a fine of ₦1 million. Please pass this message round, as injury to one is injury to all.”

The development is expected to disrupt fuel supply in Delta State and possibly other parts of the South-South region, as petroleum marketers often act in solidarity during such strikes.