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Claim: A Facebook post claims that NNPC has communicated a new location to buy fuel at the rate of N200
Verdict: Misleading! Contrary to the claim, the NNPC’s spokesperson dismissed the claim as untrue. Besides, no credible news outlet reported such a development.
Full Text
Recently, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) announced its ability to sustain a regular supply of petrol across Nigeria, citing concerns over financial duress.
As this issue continues, Nigerians are thrown into a renewed fuel scarcity crisis, with filling stations closing their doors to motorists and other businesses requiring the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
On Sept. 5, 2024, a Facebook user Legit.ng shared a post claiming that NNPC, the state-owned oil company, has started selling petroleum at 200 naira per litre amidst the price competition with other fuel vendors.
The post reads, “NNPC shares location to buy fuel priced at N200 as filling stations adjust pumps.”
As of Saturday, Sept. 14, 2024, the post has received about 5,000 views, 1,000 comments and 123 reposts.
When DUBAWA examined the post, some users believed it, while others doubted its veracity.
Reacting, Joekings Vibes, said: “I commend NNPC for this great move.”
Expressing frustration over the information, DC Nation, wrote: “Nigeria is a country [that] needs deliverance from foundational powers.”
Another Facebook user, Oluseyi Ayoola, said: “Clarify the kind of fuel, don’t just say fuel. CNG is not the regular fuel that the majority of us know.”
“This legit no dy ever carry legit news,” Udo Kwu commented.
DUBAWA, noticing the controversies surrounding the claim, decided to fact-check it to set the record straight.
Verification
DUBAWA checked the market survey and media analysis. We can confirm that petrol pump prices have remained around N879 or upwards since Sept. 3, 2024.
Both Premium Times and Vanguard newspapers reported this price increase.
Also, we contacted Femi Shoneye, the NNPC Chief Corporate Communication Officer, who told DUBAWA to disregard the claim, saying it was false.
He said: “This is not true. The price of PMS is determined by market forces, not by NNPC Limited or the government. It is a deregulated market, and these forces drive prices.”
“The exchange rate also plays a crucial role. At NNPC, we are working to ensure that Nigeria receives fair pricing and are negotiating with Dangote regarding pricing,” he added.
Moreover, no credible media outlet reported a recent reduction in fuel pump prices.
Conclusion
Findings by DUBAWA show that NNPC has not reduced fuel price to 200 per litre or shared any location for fuel purchase at the rate, as claimed. Therefore, the claim is misleading.
