Follow Us on Google
By Bimbola Oyesola
Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has issued a seven -day ultimatum to the Rivers State government to release trucks impounded by security operatives or it would disrupt distribution of petroleum products in the state.
The union warned that if the seven days, which took effect from from Wednesday, elapses and relevance stakeholders failed to release all trucks indiscriminately arrested and impounded by security operatives and some local government authorities in Rivers State, the union would withdraw services of members and cripple fuel distribution to consumers.
This was contained in a petition by the Port Harcourt Zonal Council of NUPENG to Governor Nyesom Wike signed by Chinda Ejims, assistant general secretary/head of administration of the union at the end of the zonal council meeting in Port Harcourt on September.
“It has become imperative that we reiterate the issues likely to disrupt the free flow of petroleum products to Rivers. The unions’ letter of August 25, was explicit and detailed on all the trucks laden with petroleum products that are still in the custody of various security agencies.
“Consequent upon the said letter, only the Nigerian Army has invited the union for a meeting even though the issues are still in abeyance, whereas other relevant authorities have remained incommunicado despite the Union’s effort to pursue peace by all means,” the petition read.
The union said it felt seriously frustrated and helpless in the face of oppressive government agencies that have become repressive to petroleum tanker drivers who are diligently discharging essential duties and ensuring free flow and equitable distribution of petroleum products to the state.
“As the peoples governor, focused on delivering good governance and ensuring peaceful business environment, the union appeals that you intervene in this matter to avert a looming industrial crises that may affect the free flow of petroleum products to the state,” the petition stated.
