Fuel Regulator Uncovers Under-Dispensing, Orders Nationwide Recalibration

The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) announced that it has found numerous filling stations across the country selling petroleum products in amounts below what customers pay for. In a statement issued on Tuesday, September 22, the regulator called the practice a significant violation of consumer confidence and pledged to step up enforcement against the stations involved. It cautioned that it would close any retail site that cheats members of the public through pumps that dispense less fuel than indicated. After the recent findings, the NMDPRA said every retail outlet must recalibrate its fuel dispensers and totalizers. The agency said it had noticed cases of under-dispensing at retail outlets nationwide, adding that it regards the conduct as an unacceptable breach of consumer trust. To protect consumers, all retail outlet operators were ordered to immediately calibrate and verify their dispensers and totalizers. The purpose is to ensure accurate measurement so buyers get the full worth of the products they purchase. According to the authority, inspections and enforcement efforts have also been increased nationwide. Outlets discovered to be under-dispensing, using equipment that is not properly calibrated, or otherwise undermining dispensing accuracy will have to make immediate corrections. Repeated or severe breaches may attract penalties, including the possible cancellation of an outlet's license under NMDPRA rules. The development occurs as Nigerians contend with rising petrol prices.