By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) earnestly implores the State Government and relevant authorities to swiftly address the pressing issue of fuel scarcity that has inflicted severe hardship on the populace.
Describing the current situation in Sokoto State as the most dire fuel scarcity in its history, the Council emphasises the urgent need for intervention.
The release jointly signed by state Council Chairman and Secretary, Dalhatu Abdullahi and Muhammad Nasir Bello also said the scarcity has paralysed daily commuters, with many unable to access transportation due to exorbitant fares for Keke Napep, Commercial Motorcycles, and Taxis.
Additionally, the limited inter-state transport vehicles exacerbates the challenges of leaving the state.
The Council observed that Fuel stations are overwhelmed with long queues, leading to some public allegations of irregular operations and accusations of fuel diversion to black marketers, further exacerbating the situation.
The black market price for fuel has soared, with a gallon costing from N12,000 to N15,000, placing immense strain on the populace both socially and economically.
In the light of these challenges, NUJ appeals to all relevant authorities and stakeholders to urgently take decisive action to alleviate the suffering of the public.