Frustration, gridlock as fuel scarcity bites harder in Ilorin

… liter now goes for N320

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

The scarcity of fuel took another dimension in Ilorin the Kwara State capital on Thursday as long queues caused gridlock on major roads in the metropolis.

The majority of residents who are familiar with the nooks and crannies of the metropolis resulted to intra-community roads to avoid the traffic.

An investigation by WesternPost revealed that the scarcity has resulted in an astronomical increase in the pump price.

Some of the roads affected by the gridlocks are Western Reservoir/Olorunsogo Ilorin, Odota and Taiwo among others.

Motorists now buy fuel at N320 per litre at the few filling stations where the product was being sold.

As such, transport fares have increased across board.

A businessman, who identified himself as John James expressed frustration at the perennial fuel scarcity in the country.

He urged the concerned authorities to do the needful to ameliorate the suffering of ordinary citizens, moreso with the general election fast approaching.

A commercial motorcyclist, Mr Abdullah Ishola said fuel stations have become bonafide black maketers as they sell between N280,N290 and N320  per litre.

He said invariably, a drop now cost between N150 and N200 regardless of the distance, even as urged the government to address all issues involved in the supply chain as the masses are experiencing untold hardship.