The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority has directed petroleum retailers nationwide to ensure the immediate and accurate calibration of fuel-dispensing equipment.
The directive is intended to curb under-dispensing — the practice of dispensing a lower quantity of petroleum product than the volume paid for by a customer.
NMDPRA warned that retail outlets found engaging in the practice risk regulatory sanctions, including revocation of operating licences.
The measure strengthens the consumer-protection dimension of downstream petroleum regulation.
A dispensing pump is not merely operational equipment; its calibration determines whether the quantity represented to a consumer corresponds with what is actually delivered.
PETROAN subsequently urged members to carry out nationwide checks on their meters following the regulator’s warning.
For filling-station operators, the directive increases the importance of internal compliance procedures, equipment maintenance and accurate measurement records.
For consumers, it gives regulatory weight to complaints that motorists may pay for quantities of petrol or diesel they do not fully receive.
The prospect of licence revocation makes under-dispensing more than a customer-service dispute. It becomes a potential threat to an operator’s legal authority to remain in business.
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SOURCE: Lawyard
