Fuel scarcity is set to hit Delta State as IPMAN and NUPENG begin an indefinite strike from September 8, 2025, shutting down all filling stations statewide
A fresh wave of fuel scarcity is set to cripple Delta State as the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) have declared an indefinite strike starting Monday, September 8, 2025.
Also read: Northern Discontent Against Tinubu Fuels 2027 Political Unrest
The move comes after an emergency joint meeting held on Saturday, September 6, where both unions resolved to shut down all filling stations across the state from 6:00 a.m. on Monday, pending further instructions from their national leadership.
In a circular issued to fuel marketers, the unions warned that any filling station caught operating during the industrial action would face a ₦1 million fine.
“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,” the notice read.
“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 strike is expected to severely disrupt fuel supply not only in Delta State but potentially across other parts of the South-South region, as petroleum workers in nearby states may join in solidarity.
The specific grievances behind the industrial action have yet to be made public, but the development comes amid rising tensions over:
- Delays in fuel subsidy payments
- Distribution bottlenecks
- High operating costs
- Alleged government inaction on previous agreements
Fuel queues were already beginning to form in parts of Warri, Sapele, and Ughelli by late Sunday.
Transporters and logistics companies have started warning of price hikes and service disruptions.
Black marketers were reportedly taking advantage of the situation, with pump prices already hitting ₦900/litre in some areas.
Also read: Radda Recalls Buhari’s Advice on Tinubu’s Fuel Subsidy Decision
Neither the Delta State Government nor the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources had issued a response at press time.
