Due to the drivers of Petroleum tankers stopping gasoline loading, a fuel shortage problem is developing in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria. The drivers are demonstrating against authorities from the Federal Ministry of Transportation and the Lagos State Government for allegedly harassing them. Telecommunications businesses have expressed alarm over the situation, believing that a protracted strike could interrupt diesel supply and impact internet and mobile services. Due to the truck drivers’ inability to carry fuel on Saturday and Sunday, the strike started over the weekend.
According to the Lagos State Government, it is only implementing its e-call-up system, a digital platform that was launched in September 2024 with the goal of controlling truck movement and easing traffic in the Lekki-Epe corridor. However, government authorities are allegedly beating, harassing, and destroying the trucks of its members, according to the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO). Wale Musa, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos government’s Ministry of Transportation, maintains that the enforcement is required to avoid traffic jams close to the Dangote Refinery.
Telecoms infrastructure may suffer if diesel shortages continue.
Blackmail claims are denied by the government, which also encourages adherence to the e-call-up system. In the meantime, telecom providers have expressed concern over a possible network outage. According to the Association of telecoms Companies of Nigeria (ATCON), telecoms Infrastructure may suffer if diesel shortages continue. Numerous telecom base stations that are run by infrastructure firms like American Tower Company and IHS Towers depend on diesel generators. The ATCON has called for immediate action from state governments and petroleum unions because several sites are now near critical supply levels.
Numerous mishaps involving petroleum tankers have occurred in Lagos State throughout the years, creating serious safety and infrastructure issues. 47 gasoline tanker explosions and accidents were reported in the state between 2018 and 2021, resulting in 388 injuries, 98 fatalities, and damage to 705 buildings and 391 cars. The Lagos State Government responded by enforcing regulations on tanker operations, which included arresting and prosecuting drivers for moving breaches. Tanker operators, however, frequently protested these measures because they felt unfairly singled out without taking systemic problems into account.
E-call-up manages the entry & exit of trucks in the Lekki-Epe corridor.
In September 2024, the Lagos State Government implemented the electronic call-up (e-call-up) system to alleviate the ongoing traffic jams and safety issues related to tanker movements. In order to avoid chaotic traffic conditions brought on by careless parking and disorganised truck movements, this digital platform organises and manages the entry and exit of trucks in the Lekki-Epe corridor. In order to keep trucks off the road until they are needed, the system routes them to holding parks that have a total capacity of more than 1,200 vehicles.
Although the e-call-up method has been successful in easing traffic, tanker drivers have accused officials of harassing them by using abusive measures, such as physical assaults and vehicle towing. Officials have highlighted the significance of compliance in order to avoid traffic and preserve order in conversations with important stakeholders, including representatives from significant industrial enterprises and municipal authorities. But there are still few specifics about the talks with the tanker drivers’ union, which begs the question of how inclusive the process is.
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Long-term gasoline shortages can seriously affect daily living and enterprises. Road mobility is crucial to the flow of people and products in Nigeria’s economy. A shortage of fuel can raise the cost of transportation, which can raise the cost of products and services and fuel inflation. Sectors like telecoms are also at risk; base station operations may be hindered by diesel shortages, which might result in network outages that impact millions of users. A diversified strategy is needed to address the current situation, including regulatory adjustments, government mediation, an evaluation of the E-Call-Up system, and alternative fuel supply plans.