The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has sounded the alarm over potential disruptions to petroleum distribution and risks to lives and properties posed by a group calling itself ADITOP. In a press release issued by General Secretary Afolabi Olawale on November 28, NUPENG described ADITOP’s actions as a “serious risk to the safety, security, and wellbeing of the general public.”
The union expressed concerns about ADITOP’s attempts to establish unauthorized collection centers at petroleum depots and highways, targeting tanker drivers with demands for “ADITOP Trip Levies.” NUPENG warned that such activities could lead to violence, destabilise industrial harmony, and disrupt the seamless distribution of petroleum products across Nigeria.
Quoting from the release:
“The threats being made by ADITOP without doubt is capable of endangering the lives of Petroleum Tanker Drivers, destruction of properties, destabilisation of the industrial peace and harmony of Petroleum Products Depots across the country… There is no ambiguity in the fact that the Nigeria Labour laws only recognise NUPENG and PENGASSAN as the umbrella bodies for oil and gas Workers in Nigeria.”
NUPENG also underscored that legitimate associations like NARTO, IPMAN, MEMAN, and DAPPMAN have established offices outside depots and collect dues without causing harm or distress. The union alleged that ADITOP, on the other hand, is an “assemblage of failed rent seekers and irredeemable smugglers of petroleum products,” seeking to exploit the system for financial gain.
The release further stated:
“We had earlier warned… this association is nothing but assemblage of failed Rent Seekers in the Subsidy Regime and Irredeemable Smugglers of Petroleum Products disguising as businessmen and women.”
NUPENG demanded that ADITOP’s promoters and sponsors be reined in immediately to avert a looming crisis. The union emphasized its readiness to take action, warning that its members would withdraw their services if ADITOP interferes with petroleum distribution activities.
In closing, the union reiterated its commitment to protecting the interests of its members and ensuring the stability of the oil and gas sector.
