Fuel crisis looms as NUPENG battles LASG over towed tankers

By Yunus Yusuf

The National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has commenced discussions with the Lagos State Government to resolve issues surrounding the towing of petroleum tankers.

The union stated that the negotiations aim to prevent disruptions in fuel distribution, which could lead to widespread scarcity.

Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Lagos, NUPENG’s General Secretary, Mr Olawale Afolabi, explained that the union had suspended its services following recent incidents involving the arrest and harassment of tanker drivers by Lagos State security personnel.

Afolabi assured that ongoing talks with state authorities would facilitate the release of the impounded trucks, in line with the government’s assurances.

NAN reports that on Feb. 22, the Lagos State Task Force impounded several tankers and arrested members of the Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Association, a branch of NUPENG, for allegedly parking illegally near the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki.

Afolabi confirmed that negotiations between NUPENG and the Lagos State Government were progressing, with both sides optimistic about reaching a resolution that would allow depot operations to resume.

However, he noted that the outcome of the discussions remains uncertain, and stakeholders are keenly awaiting further updates.

Similarly, the Chairman of NUPENG’s Lagos branch, Mr Tayo Aboyeji, reiterated that the suspension of services was a response to the mistreatment and arrest of tanker drivers.

He clarified that the union had previously instructed drivers to avoid night operations due to safety concerns, including accidents and hijackings.

“We had instructed tanker drivers not to travel at night to avoid accidents and hijackings.

“But when drivers parked to rest, security personnel towed their vehicles, arrested our members, and even damaged the union’s patrol vehicle,” Aboyeji said.

He added, “As a result, we decided to suspend services in the state until the government is ready to provide a safe and convenient space for tanker drivers, ensuring that such incidents do not occur again.”

Aboyeji further assured that the union’s national leadership was engaged in discussions with the Lagos State Government and expressed confidence that the matter would soon be resolved.

“There are ongoing discussions, and if they are completed today or tomorrow, the issue will be resolved,” he stated.