The ongoing strike by the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has caused significant disruptions in the supply of petroleum products across the country. Oil marketers are feeling the heat as depots remain shut, leading to low stock levels at filling stations and widespread complaints from suppliers and consumers alike.
The strike, which began over unresolved issues between NUPENG, the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) arm of the union, and the Lagos State Government, has now entered its third day. Marketers are expressing frustration over the impact on their businesses, with many unable to supply their stations due to the depot closures.
The Impact on Supply Chains
One marketer, who chose to remain anonymous, lamented, “This strike has affected my business. Supply that is urgent they said I should wait till tomorrow morning. Please, is it possible they call it off tomorrow morning?” This sentiment echoes the concerns of many in the industry who rely on a steady supply of petroleum products to keep their businesses running.
The closure of depots has not only affected marketers but also disrupted the entire supply chain. Some marketers have reported that their stations are running low on stock, while others are unable to meet the demands of their customers. The situation has left many scrambling for solutions as the strike continues to bite harder.
NUPENG’s Demands and Government Response
The strike was triggered by a series of unresolved issues, including the recent enforcement of the E-Call Up System along the Lekki-Epe corridor by the Lagos State Government. The system, designed to regulate truck activities and reduce traffic congestion, has faced resistance from some truckers.
In a press statement, the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation warned that full enforcement of the E-Call Up System would commence on 1st March 2025, with violators facing the full wrath of the law. However, the government has also shown clemency by releasing apprehended trucks and suspects as a gesture of goodwill, urging stakeholders to comply voluntarily.
Meanwhile, meetings between NUPENG, PTD, and the Lagos State Government are ongoing in an effort to resolve the issues and reopen the depots. Industry experts have warned that the prolonged closure of depots could have severe consequences for the supply of petroleum products across the country.
Marketers’ Plea for Resolution
Marketers are urging all parties to reach a swift resolution to avoid further disruptions. Marketers from Neighborhood Energy, expressed hope that the strike could be called off by tomorrow morning, allowing operations to resume and supply chains to stabilise.
However, with no clear end in sight, the uncertainty continues to weigh heavily on the industry. As one marketer put it, “The depot plays a critical role in the distribution of petroleum products. This shutdown is unacceptable and is causing more harm than good.”
What This Means for Nigerians
If the strike persists, Nigerians could face another round of fuel scarcity, leading to long queues at filling stations and higher prices for petroleum products. The situation is particularly concerning for businesses and households that rely on a steady supply of fuel for their daily operations.
The ongoing strike by NUPENG has brought the Nigerian petroleum industry to a standstill, with depots closed and supply chains disrupted. As negotiations continue, marketers and consumers alike are hoping for a swift resolution to avoid further hardship.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story
