Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria IPMAN, Enugu Depot, has threatened to shut down all filling stations in Anambra State.
The threat follows purported plan by the state government to demolish about 13 filling stations at Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area to pave way for the construction of a flyover in the area.
The chairman of Enugu Depot of IPMAN, Mr Chinedu Anyaso who briefed newsmen after their meeting in Awka Anambra state, Wednesday, said filling stations in the state will be shut down if Governor Soludo fails to pay adequate compensation to the all the filling stations earmarked for demolition.
While he noted that government cannot just demolish people’s property without paying compensation, he urged all members of IPMAN to be at alert and if the government goes ahead to demolish any of the 13 filling stations earmarked,they should shut their stations.
“These filling stations are the main economic stay for the affected families and government cannot create hardship for these families.
“If the government demolishes these filling stations, it will negatively affect the living standard of the affected families. Honestly, government must adequately pay compensation before demolition of the filling stations,” he said.
He also disclosed that they had written several letters to the governor but none has gotten any reply. He further urged his members not sign any document from government until studied by IPMAN.
“We cannot fight the government but we can withdraw our services to the public if the governor refuses to pay compensation before demolition of any of the filling stations. We must all stand by any of our members, it could be anybody,” he said.
Reacting, Anambra State Commissioner for Petroleum, Mr. Ifeanyi Ifeanya, said that the governor has the right to revoke any property for the public overriding interest. He however said that the government will meet with the group for discussion.
