Fuel Consumers Cry Out as Attendants Manipulate Pumps

By Diafa Doubra,

Petrol consumers across Nigeria have raised alarm over alleged sharp practices by fuel attendants who manipulate pumps to extort unsuspecting buyers.

Findings revealed that some attendants reportedly use tampered meters to dispense less fuel than customers pay for, while others engage in tricks such as adjusting nozzles mid-sale or deliberately failing to reset pumps. These practices, according to motorists, have led to daily losses running into millions of naira nationwide.

Experts say the manipulation is widespread and thrives due to weak monitoring of filling stations by regulatory agencies. Consumer rights advocates have called on the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to intensify surveillance and enforce stiffer sanctions on offenders to protect Nigerians already burdened by rising fuel costs.

Meanwhile, motorists are advised to remain vigilant by closely monitoring meters before and during purchase, and by demanding receipts to hold stations accountable.