A petroleum station's worker is wearing a black and orange uniform fills up a truck with petrol, the driver gives him some money and a passenger watches. (Photo by In Pictures Ltd./Corbis via Getty Images)
(EPICSTORIAN) – A crippling fuel shortage has engulfed Ghana’s Oti Region, leaving residents and businesses in the affected areas in disarray.
For the past three days, critical areas in the Oti region such as Abotoase, Kwamekrom in the Biakoye District, Kete-Krachi in Krachi West, and Dambai, the regional capital in Krachi East, have been without petrol, GhanaWeb reported.
Commuters in Oti Region lamented the situation
This crisis is severely affecting commuters, commercial operators, and motorbike riders—popularly known as “Okada” riders.
The shortage, which started shortly after the festive season, has halted economic activities and exacerbated transportation challenges. According to Ms. Perfect Asamoah, Manageress of the Ghana Oil Company (Goil) station in Kete-Krachi, the situation stems from a sharp spike in fuel demand during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
“We had sufficient fuel reserves initially, but the festive season caused an unexpected surge in demand,” Ms. Asamoah explained to the Ghana News Agency (GNA). “The problem started on Wednesday, and while I cannot confirm when supply will resume, authorities are working tirelessly to address the issue.”
Residents and business operators in the affected areas have been vocal about their frustrations. Okada riders, in particular, have expressed concern over how the crisis is undermining their ability to earn a living. A spokesperson for a group of Okada riders in Krachi West lamented, “We’ve been without fuel for three days. This is devastating for our livelihoods. How are we expected to survive?”
Beyond the lack of fuel, the crisis has triggered secondary issues, including exorbitant fare hikes. Reports indicate that some Okada riders are exploiting the situation, charging inflated prices that many residents find unaffordable. This has made accessing essential services and commuting to work nearly impossible for some.
Despite these challenges, Ms. Asamoah appealed for calm and assured the public that efforts were underway to restore supply.
“We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused and urge everyone to remain patient. Solutions are being implemented to resolve this unfortunate situation,” she added.
The Oti Region’s predicament underscores the vulnerability of Ghana’s fuel supply chain, particularly during periods of heightened demand. Stakeholders have called for a review of fuel distribution logistics to ensure regions are better prepared for future surges.
As the days pass, the anxiety among residents grows. Many are urging the government to expedite interventions to resolve the issue and restore normalcy.
