In response to the alarming increase in petrol prices to ₦2,500 per litre, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has initiated a monitoring committee dedicated to overseeing petroleum sales. This rise in fuel prices stems from a conflict between the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Joint Task Force on Security, resulting in petrol marketers suspending their services.

On Wednesday, Enobong Uwah, the Secretary to the State Government, announced that former lawmaker Godwin Ekpo will lead the 13-member committee, with Peggy Edoho from the Ministry of Transport serving as the secretary. The committee will include various commissioners, the chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, and Victor Etefia, an aide focused on petroleum issues.

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This committee’s establishment follows a meeting between Governor Eno and IPMAN, whose members temporarily closed filling stations due to alleged confiscations of their trucks by the Joint Task Force. This situation has not only led to a spike in petrol prices but also increased transportation costs, prompting the NLC to call for its members to withdraw services in protest. They cited the dire conditions faced by struggling workers and emphasized the urgent need for government intervention.

Furthermore, Governor Eno has created a Security Trust Fund Board of Trustees, chaired by Paul Usoro, a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, with Uwem Okoko serving as vice chairperson. Both committees are set to be inaugurated on Friday, aiming to address the critical issues surrounding petrol sales and security in the state.