PTD urges members to ignore NUPENG strike call

The Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) association has urged its members to disregard the planned strike declared by the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

In a statement issued on Friday, PTD described NUPENG’s strike notice as insensitive and unacceptable.

NUPENG had earlier directed its members to seek alternative employment beginning September 8, alleging that Dangote Refinery was preventing its compressed natural gas (CNG) tanker drivers from joining labour unions.

Reacting, PTD questioned why NUPENG failed to pursue dialogue or negotiation before calling for strike action. “How could NUPENG condescend so low that they didn’t even deem it necessary to explore any option of negotiation or stakeholders’ dialogue before arriving at this?” the statement read.

The PTD further argued that unions ought to act responsibly, stressing that “negotiations and symbiotic relationships cannot be reached through violence, threats, or arrogance. Nigeria is governed under a constitutional democracy, and these union leaders should note that very carefully.”

The drivers’ body also accused NUPENG of neglecting its duty to promote peace and unity within the petroleum industry.