Dangote Refinery Halts Diesel Sales Amid Price Concerns

Dangote Refinery has suspended the loading of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) at its gantry, leading to uncertainty in Nigeria's diesel market. This suspension, which occurred around 3:00 am on a Saturday, has prompted petroleum marketers to raise their selling prices to as high as ₦1,900 per litre in Lagos and Warri.

The suspension is attributed to increasing international crude oil prices, which have climbed towards $116 per barrel, putting pressure on domestic fuel prices. Although the refinery has not officially announced a new diesel price or provided an explanation for the suspension, industry sources suggest that a price review may be imminent.

The truck driver familiar with the refinery's operations noted that while diesel loading was halted, petrol loading continued, indicating that the suspension specifically affected diesel operations. There has been no official confirmation that the loading suspension was intended to facilitate a price increase.