Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, NMDPRA, has intensified regulatory enforcement in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market, sealing 11 filling stations in Rivers State over alleged under-dispensing of fuel and other operational infractions.
The enforcement action, carried out during the weekend ,affected filling stations located across Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt City Local Government Areas, Nigeria’s oil and gas hub, and forms part of the regulator’s ongoing efforts to restore transparency and consumer confidence in the retail petroleum segment.
Speaking with journalists during the exercise, NMDPRA Regional Coordinator, South-South, Mr. Victor Owodiasa, said the stations were sealed for engaging in sharp practices that undermine market integrity.
“The stations were found to be under-dispensing petroleum products, operating with failed pumps and committing other regulatory violations,” Owodiasa said.
He explained that the operation was conducted under the Authority’s ‘Operation One Litre for One Litre’ initiative, a surveillance programme designed to ensure consumers receive accurate volumes for every litre purchased.
“This exercise is about protecting consumers and ensuring fairness in the downstream market. Nigerians must get full value for their money at the pump,” he added.
Owodiasa warned that the Authority would sustain enforcement actions across the South-South region, stressing that compliance with metering, pump integrity and operational standards is non-negotiable under the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA.
“We will not hesitate to sanction any operator found short-changing the public. Regulatory compliance is critical to market stability and investor confidence in the downstream sector,” he stated.
The latest clampdown underscores NMDPRA’s growing resolve to strengthen regulatory oversight in the post-subsidy era, where accurate pricing and transparent fuel delivery have become central to consumer protection and downstream market efficiency.
