Yemisi Izuora
The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD), a critical branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), have launched a fierce attack on the union’s national leadership, calling for the immediate arrest of key executives over what they describe as “reckless and destabilizing” actions that threaten Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
In a strongly worded statement jointly signed by Chief (Mrs) Blessing Dafinone (Warri PTD) and Comrade Joseph Dagogo-Jack (Port Harcourt) branch, the drivers accused NUPENG President Williams Akporeha and General Secretary Afolabi Olawale of mismanaging the union, intimidating members, and undermining national economic progress.
The tanker drivers’ outrage is linked to NUPENG’s planned nationwide strike, set to begin Monday, September 8, in protest of certain reforms within the downstream petroleum sector — particularly the Dangote Refinery’s plan to import 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks for direct distribution of fuel.
According to the PTD, the move by Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Sayyu Dantata is a forward-looking initiative that will improve efficiency, eliminate illegal levies, and create jobs. They described NUPENG’s resistance as selfish, hypocritical, and damaging to the country.
“This strike threat is insensitive and wicked. A responsible union explores negotiation, not sabotage,” the statement read. “NUPENG leaders are economic saboteurs using the union to pursue personal interests.”
The PTD also criticized NUPENG’s internal crisis and alleged corruption, claiming the union has become a shadow of its former self, plagued by lawsuits, factionalism, and administrative failure. They alleged that billions in dues collected from drivers have not translated into welfare or training support, and that many tanker drivers earn less than ₦50,000 monthly — some without regular pay.
In a rare move, the PTD advised the Federal Government, National Assembly, and security agencies to intervene decisively, including arresting NUPENG leaders to prevent further unrest.
“No union is above the law. NUPENG must not be allowed to destroy the peace and progress in the oil sector,” they warned.
The tanker drivers hailed Dangote and Dantata as patriotic businessmen modernizing the industry and aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. They urged Nigerians to reject attempts to discredit them.
As the strike date approaches, stakeholders across the industry are on high alert, with concerns that any disruption in fuel supply could have significant economic implications.