Tanker drivers threaten strike over Dangote’s CNG truck scheme

Tanker drivers under the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) branch of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) have threatened to stop fuel loading from Monday, September 8 over an ongoing dispute with the management of the Dangote Refinery.

The union said the conflict stemmed from the refinery’s plan to deploy 4,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks for direct distribution of fuel to retailers.

According to NUPENG, the scheme would displace thousands of its members and undermine their right to unionise.

Weekend Trust reports that the direct fuel distribution initiative by Dangote Refinery has been generating disquiet in the sector with Dangote pushing on with the initiative with some of the CNG trucks already in the country. Dangote Refinery plans to commit a significant capital investment estimated at N720 billion to the scheme, underscoring the company’s commitment to pioneering innovative solutions as the world’s largest single-train refinery continues to expand its operational capabilities.

Though the programme was scheduled to commence on August 15, it is being delayed due to logistics challenges in China.

In a statement jointly signed by its President, Williams Akporeha and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, NUPENG accused the refinery of “anti-labour practices inimical to the survival of its members.” The union alleged that Aliko Dangote had insisted that newly recruited drivers for the CNG trucks would not be allowed to join any union.

NUPENG described the stance as a violation of the constitutional right to freedom of association and a breach of international labour conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.

The union warned that it would not watch while the livelihoods of thousands of tanker drivers were threatened. It recalled its support for the Dangote Refinery during its construction and commissioning, saying it had expected job creation and a conducive atmosphere for unions to thrive.

The union said its members would stop loading petroleum products nationwide from Monday, September 8, while urging the public to bear with any inconveniences. It also called on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and other industrial unions to prepare for solidarity actions. There was no immediate comment from Dangote Refinery as at press time.

COURTESY: vavalue