The Oti Region is currently facing a severe fuel shortage, leaving residents and businesses stranded.

In the past 72 hours, the region has been without petrol, significantly affecting ‘Okada’ riders, motorists, and other fuel consumers across key areas, including Abotoase, Kwamekrom in the Biakoye District, Kete-Krachi in Krachi West, and the regional capital, Dambai, in Krachi East.

The crisis, which began shortly after the festive season, has posed a significant challenge for commuters and commercial operators.

Speaking to the Ghana News Agency (GNA), Ms. Perfect Asamoah, the Manageress of the Ghana Oil Company (Goil) station in Kete-Krachi, Krachi West Municipality, attributed the shortage to the high demand for fuel during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

“We had enough fuel initially, but the festive season caused a surge in demand. The problem began on Wednesday. I cannot confirm when fuel will be available, but authorities are working on a solution,” she explained.

Some frustrated Okada riders in Krachi West Municipality have expressed their dismay over the ongoing crisis.

“We’ve been without fuel for three days, and it’s affecting our livelihoods. How are we supposed to survive?” a spokesperson for a rider group said.

The shortage has led to unfair extortion by some Okada riders, who are charging exorbitant fares, making transportation unaffordable for many passengers.

Ms. Perfect appealed for calm and assured consumers that efforts were underway to resolve the issue. She also apologized for the inconvenience caused by the shortage.

Residents of the Oti Region are now anxiously awaiting a swift resolution to the crisis, which has disrupted daily activities and livelihoods across the area.