Tanker Drivers Reject Strike, Demand Arrest Of NUPENG Leaders

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 immediate arrest of key executives over what they describe as “reckless and destabilising” actions that threaten Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

In a 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, alleging intimidating of members and undermining national economic progress.

The tanker drivers’ outrage was linked to NUPENG’s planned nationwide strike, set to begin on Monday, September 8, in protest of certain reforms within the downstream petroleum sector.

NUPENG was particularly against Dangote Refinery’s plan to import 4,000 compressed natural gas-powered trucks for direct distribution of fuel.

According to the drivers, the move by Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Sayyu Dantata was 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 accused the leadership of NUPENG of corruption, claiming the union has become a shadow of its former self, plagued by lawsuits, factionalism, and administrative failure.

They further alleged that billions collected from drivers in dues have not translated into welfare or training support, and that many tanker drivers earn less than ₦50,000 monthly while some were without regular salary.

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 modernising the industry and aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

As the strike date approaches, stakeholders across the industry were on high alert, with concerns that any disruption in fuel supply could have significant economic implications on the nation.