A severe fuel shortage has crippled Yendi and its surrounding areas in the Northern Region, causing widespread disruptions to daily activities and businesses.
The crisis, which began four days ago, has left over 11 fuel stations completely out of stock.
According to Joy News report, only one fuel station received a delivery late Thursday, January 9, but the supply is insufficient to meet the growing demand. Residents are frustrated and desperate, with many expressing their inability to secure fuel after days of searching.
“I have been running from one fuel station to the other, yet I haven’t had any fuel yet,” said Dokurugu Yarayi, a resident. “You can imagine how this has affected my movement and work. We are appealing to the authorities to help address the challenge.”
The shortage has severely affected transportation and business operations in the area. Small-scale fuel sellers are taking advantage of the situation, doubling their prices. For instance, fuel that previously cost 10 cedis is now being sold for 20 cedis.
While lorry fares have not yet increased, residents fear that drivers may soon be forced to raise prices if the shortage persists. The reasons for the shortage are unclear, but managers of fuel stations in Damongo blame the high demand for fuel during the election period.
Residents are urging the authorities to intervene and address the shortage. “If the authorities are enjoying, they should remember the masses are suffering and attend to us,” said Afa Abdul Rahman, a resident.
The situation is not unique to Yendi, as reports indicate that Damongo in the West Gonja District of the Savannah region is also experiencing a similar fuel shortage. Managers of fuel stations in the area are hopeful that they will receive new deliveries this weekend to serve customers.
The fuel shortage has brought economic activities to a standstill, and residents are calling on the government to take immediate action to address the crisis.