In a statement, PETROAN said the move is in support of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), whose members have announced a nationwide strike to protest alleged anti-union labour practices. The dispute is linked to Dangote Refinery’s introduction of newly imported Compressed Natural Gas trucks for direct distribution of fuel, bypassing existing supply chains.

PETROAN’s National President, Billy Gillis-Harry, said the planned suspension is aimed at promoting healthy competition in the sector and protecting the interests of independent marketers, depot owners, truck operators, and workers who could be forced out of business by Dangote’s aggressive distribution strategy.

He warned that such a monopoly could result in widespread job losses and economic hardship, similar to what happened in the cement industry.

Gillis-Harry also urged the President, top government officials, and security agencies to intervene in the dispute to prevent disruptions in fuel supply and avert nationwide hardship.

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He stated that pump attendants at PETROAN-affiliated stations, who are also NUPENG members, would join the strike, and no disciplinary action should be taken against them during the period.

An emergency meeting by PETROAN resolved to enforce compliance through a 120-man monitoring team across retail outlets. The association reiterated its commitment to fair competition and a stable petroleum market that benefits the Nigerian economy.

Source: Punch