By Chizoba Ogbeche
Abuja
Department of State Service (DSS) has said that the build-up of queues at petrol stations is caused by the reluctance by National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) to move trucks loaded with products from the South for distribution in the North.
Service spokesperson, Ms. Marilyn Ogar, in a press statement, yesterday in Abuja, said that this development is premised on fears by NARTO members of being caught in likely election violence as was witnessed in 2011, which resulted in loss of lives and property.
The statement said: “This Service has observed lately the build-up of queues at petrol stations. Investigation has revealed that trucks that would hitherto have loaded products from the South for distribution in the North are reluctant to do so.
“This development is premised on fears by National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) of being caught in likely election violence as was witnessed in 2011, which resulted in loss of lives and property.”
She said: “The government recognises the fact that NARTO and such other Unions provide essential services and as such, adequate security arrangements have been emplaced to guarantee their safety.
“Consequently, Brigade Commanders, Police Commissioners and State Directors of the DSS have been directed by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), the IGP and the DGSS respectively to provide adequate security.”
She added that the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) had assured that there were adequate petroleum products to meet demand before, during and after the elections.
The service, therefore, urged the public not to resort to panic buying and hoarding, just it re-assured NARTO and all Nigerians of the security and safety of their lives and property.