Transport costs in Delta State have surged sharply following the commencement of an indefinite strike by members of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).
The industrial action, which officially began today, September 8, 2025, has crippled fuel supply across the state. Several major filling stations, including Rain Oil, Shafa, Matrix, and others, have shut their gates in compliance with the strike directive.
As a result, motorists and businesses are left with no choice but to patronize roadside fuel hawkers, where petrol is now being sold between ₦1,800 and ₦2,000 per litre.
This situation has caused a ripple effect on transportation costs, leaving many residents stranded and frustrated. For example, the fare from Koka Junction to Asaba Airport, which previously stood at ₦500, has doubled to ₦1,000. Commercial drivers defend the hike, citing the exorbitant fuel prices they now face.
The strike action was resolved during an emergency meeting held on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where both unions unanimously agreed to shut down all fuel stations in Delta State starting from 6:00 am on Monday, September 8, 2025, pending further instructions from their national leadership.
With no clear timeline for resolution, commuters, businesses, and families are bracing for tougher days ahead as the cost of goods and services is expected to climb even higher.
