Amidst the scarcity of Petroleum Motor Spirit, also known as petrol, leading to overcrowded fuel stations in various cities, the Ogun State Police Command has announced its partnership with fuel stations across the state to tackle potential outbreaks of violence.
In a WhatsApp exchange with PUNCH Online, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, emphasized that the aim is to prevent violence resulting from the overcrowding situation.
Earlier, PUNCH Online had highlighted a reported incident where Toheeb Eniasa was shot at a petrol station owned by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited in the Ikoyi area of Lagos State.
The incident, which transpired late on Wednesday, has sparked fear among residents in the vicinity.
Based on information gathered by our correspondent present at the scene, Eniasa was waiting in line to purchase petrol when the altercation occurred.
While in the queue, two individuals, suspected to be military personnel, attempted to bypass the line and enter the station for fuel, leading to objections from other customers.
This disagreement escalated into a confrontation between the military personnel and Eniasa, culminating in one of the military officers firing a fatal shot at him.
The meeting, which included representatives from major fuel stations across the state, took place on Monday, as highlighted by Odutola.
She mentioned, “Representatives from various stations such as Mobil Filling Station, M. Olaoluwa Filling Station, Gateway Filling Station, MRS. Filling Station, A.A. Rano Filling Station, Teejay Filling Station, and Optima Energy Filling Station, among others, were present.
“The gathering was in response to the directives of the Commissioner of Police, CP Abiodun Alamutu, Ogun State Command, amidst the ongoing fuel crisis.
“Participants were urged to maintain order within their premises, prevent traffic congestion, discourage haphazard parking, promote orderly conduct, and avert any actions that could lead to disorder. These measures were put in place to ensure safety and organization during fuel sales.”
She concluded by stating that Divisional Police Officers’ contacts were shared with the attendees to facilitate swift intervention.