A group, Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) has countered a strike notice issued by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) over Dangote refinery’s alleged prevention of its Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tanker drivers from “joining labour unions”.
NUPENG had directed tanker drivers to down tools from September 8.
The PTD in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday, rejected the union’s directive, which it described as “insensitive”.
“This is a clarion call to all Petroleum Tanker Drivers across Nigeria to please ignore the strike notice issued by NUPENG leadership. The purported notice suggested that the industrial action will take effect on Monday, September 8, 2025, this is obviously insensitive, callous, and unacceptable,” the statement reads.
“How could NUPENG condescend so low like this that they didn’t even deem it necessary to explore any option of negotiation or stakeholders dialogue before arriving at this?”
PTD said unions are expected to be socially responsible and not self-centred, which is “capable of ruining the socio-economic accomplishments of the country”.
The union said membership anywhere in the world is voluntary.
According to the association, Dangote refinery’s plan to import 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks for the direct distribution of fuel to retailers “is in good shape and in the best interest of the masses”.
“Negotiations and symbiotic relationships cannot be reached through violence, threats or arrogance, Nigeria is governed under constitutional democracy, these union leaders should note that very carefully,” the PTD said.
The association said NUPENG, through its actions, has failed to foster peace and harmony in the industry.
Author: Maureen Ikpeama