IPMAN sets up team to stop fuel stations from cheating customers

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) in Enugu has launched a task force. This team will make sure members follow all approval processes and rules.

IPMAN Enugu made this known in a statement on Wednesday. The statement came after an emergency Annual General Meeting with the Petroleum Dealers Association of Nigeria (PDAN) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The communiqué was signed by the zone’s Chairman, Chinedu Anyaso, and Secretary, Nnaemeka Iloafor. It called on all members to comply with rules on under-dispensing and meter reading.

IPMAN explained that this action aligns with the NMDPRA's call for all retail outlets to calibrate and verify their dispensers and totalizers. This is to protect consumers' interests.

The statement stressed the need for accurate measurement. It aims to ensure that consumers get the full amount of fuel they pay for.

IPMAN plans to use its internal systems to check that members stick to the set limits for measurement and license renewal.

The association reminded its members that those found guilty of under-dispensing will pay a fine of N250,000 for the first offence. Repeat offenders risk having their stations sealed or losing their licenses for three to six months.

IPMAN also asked NMDPRA for a grace period for its members to obtain their licenses if they have not done so yet.

“They will also work hard to ensure that members do not overcharge customers during sales.

“IPMAN and PDAN promise NMDPRA that they will work together to improve the industry and serve the public well.

“Stations that do not renew their licenses will face penalties, and their facilities will be sealed. Those who start the renewal after the 90-day grace period will pay a late entry fee of N100,000.”

The communiqué warned marketers against tampering with seals. Covering, removing, or selling from the pump is a serious offence that comes with a fine.

The association urged members to report any cases of under-loading to the petroleum tanker drivers’ union instead of risking fines by messing with the meter guidelines.

IPMAN expressed concern about rising costs, unintentional losses, price fluctuations, and technical issues from dispensers. It urged members to maintain a tolerance limit of 10.3 for every 10 litres or 20.6 for 20 litres.

“When stations are rented, the tenant should inform NMDPRA to negotiate fairly with the landlord about renewal terms.

“Stations that ignore their renewal process and fail to upload necessary documents, claiming the tax clearance is not ready, will be marked non-compliant and penalised,” it stated.